After a long preseason from just before Christmas, the club has done very well recruiting players for the 2008 season. With names like Levi Beel, Steve Comino, Joe Campbell, Mark Bindle, Josh Wick, Dom & Rory Galligan, Aaron Clay, Chris Mead, Robbie Callanan, Ian Stephens, and Jon Milliner and all of last year’s top side and reserve players have returned. Steve Maugham has been appointed my assistant coach for 2008, John Marsden as reserve coach for 2008 and Ivan as the under 21s youth coach 2008.

We have yet to get on to the hallow turf of The Gap but it is not far away. Our first game was switched to Samford’s ground on Friday night, this was the first game the starting 11 has played together. We played well in patches and came out winners 3-0 with two disallowed goals. I am pleased by the efforts of all and it is a good start to the season.

Our reserves also did well with being down 2-0 at half time and coming back to win the game 4-3. Well done lads! On a sour note the week before we played Stamford in a friendly and our new goalkeeper Jon Millener disclocated his shoulder but luckily enough this does not need surgery and will see him back on the park soon. Young striker Chris Mead scored the first goal on Friday night. He was involved in a very bad tackle which resulted in him breaking is arm in two places. This will see him out for the next 7 games. Myself, the club and players wish Chris a quick recovery.

Next week’s game, on Saturday March 8, is our first home game and I would like to see the whole club come out and support us.

Under 21s youth side kick off 2.00pm.

Reserves kick off at 4.00pm.

First Team kick off at 6.00pm.

Finally I would like to thank all who have helped in our preseason preparations.

Gerry McAvoy