Huddersfield Town kicked off their 2025/26 League One campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over play-off finalists Leyton Orient at the Accu Stadium, marking a dream start for new manager Lee Grant. The match showcased the Terriers’ revitalised squad, with debutants Joe Low and Alfie May scoring, alongside a late goal from substitute Ruben Roosken. Amid the euphoria of the opening day, Grant addressed his expectations for star signing Alfie May and lauded the exceptional performance of midfielder Ben Wiles, offering insight into his managerial philosophy and the team’s ambitions for the season.
No Apology
Alfie May, Huddersfield’s £1.2 million signing from Birmingham City, made an immediate impact by converting a penalty in the 55th minute, doubling the Terriers’ lead after Sean Clare fouled Ben Wiles in the box. The 32-year-old striker, known for his prolific goalscoring record in League One with 82 goals over the last four seasons, was a marquee addition to Grant’s squad as they aim for promotion back to the Championship. However, Grant made it clear that he expects more than just goals from his forwards, including May, and he won’t be apologising for the high demands placed on them.
“I make no apologies for that,” Grant stated post-match, referring to the intense physical and tactical expectations he sets for his forwards. “Anybody who signs for me as a forward player knows that they are going to have to be really physical and know it’s going to be intense.” He acknowledged that May, who joined the club late in the transfer window, is still adapting to the team’s rigorous pre-season regimen, having had only one or two weeks with the squad compared to the five weeks of preparation for others.
The Heart of Huddersfield’s Midfield
While May’s goal grabbed headlines, it was Ben Wiles who earned glowing praise from Grant for his “exceptional” performance. The midfielder, one of only three starters from last season’s squad, was instrumental in Huddersfield’s dominant display. Wiles’ advanced role allowed him to showcase his energy, creativity, and work rate, epitomising the team’s collective spirit. He was unfortunate not to score early on, striking the post in the fifth minute after a dynamic run, and later won the penalty that May converted.
Wiles’ performance was a bright spot in a game that marked a significant turnaround from Huddersfield’s 4-1 defeat to Orient on the final day of the previous season. His energy and versatility in an advanced midfield role provided a glimpse of the dynamism Grant aims to instil in his team as they chase promotion.
