THE wait is finally over as the start of the 2017/18 football season kicks off this weekend as Melksham Town face Horndean in the FA Cup first round. They then welcome Cadbury Heath to Oakfields on Monday 7th August for their first home outing.
It’s been an exciting pre-season for Town who hosted two friendlies against Football League opposition in Bristol Rovers and Swindon Town which brought over 2,500 fans through the turnstiles.
Manager Kieran Baggs is hoping his team can start the season on a high with the trip to Horndean for the first round of the FA Cup.
“Melksham haven’t got past the first round of the FA Cup for the last four or five years so there is a strong determination in the club to end that losing run,” he said. “The lads are focused and really want to start the season with a big win. It would be great to have fans come to support the lads – if you would like to come, please contact the club about travelling on the coach as soon as possible.”
Kieran has been busy bringing in new players since he was appointed as manager in the summer with a number of signings that have strengthened the squad.
“The new guys have settled in well and everyone is ready for the season to begin. All the preparations are done; we’ve just got to go out there and perform.
“The squad are all fit and everyone wants to play which makes my job a lot easier. I’m confident it’s going to be a good season and we’re looking forward to getting started.”
Although disappointed not to be promoted to the Southern League, the club were still very pleased to finish third in the Toolstation Premier League Division last season and win the Les Phillips Cup for the first time in the club’s history. Now the club is looking forward to the future and there is a ‘real buzz’ with the new season just days away
Chairman Darren Perrin said, “Everyone at the club is thoroughly looking forward to the 2017/18 season and we’re optimistic it will be another good one – on and off the pitch. The manager and players have worked extremely hard and are raring to go.
“The lads are looking very strong and fit and the team as a whole is very settled. Now it’s time to put that all into practice and I’m confident they’ll do that.
“I would encourage anyone who hasn’t been to the Oakfields Stadium yet to do so this season. It’s a magnificent stadium and there’s a real buzz around the place. We had great support during the pre-season as our friendlies and it would be fantastic to have that same support throughout the season.
“I for one am looking forward to what I think will be a special and memorable season at Melksham Town Football Club.”
“Myself, the committee and the directors would like to say a big thank you to our sponsors – their support is much appreciated.”
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