MELKSHAM Town are holding their own in a tough season as defending champions, but now have their eyes on cup success, says manager Darren Perrin.
Melksham are currently seventh at the mid-season point of the Toolstation Western League Premier Division, but manager Perrin says he’s got his eyes on a different prize this season.
Darren said, “I’m really pleased with how the season is going; it has been particularly hard because as champions we’re the team everybody wants to beat. I give all credit to the players though, they’re standing up to the challenge well.
“I don’t want to take anything away from the players or the club but I don’t think we’ll win the league again this year.
“We’re doing well but some other teams have invested very heavily in this season. I’m aiming for the team to finish in the top six of the league and try to win one of the cups.”
Melksham are through to the semi-final of the Wiltshire County FA Senior Cup after beating Royal Wootton Bassett Town in December, and are in the last eight in the Les Phillips Cup, which could see them face one of the Toolstation league’s top teams in the next round.
Darren continued, “We’re mid-way through the season now and it’s a hugely important time. The stop/start nature of the past few weeks, as well as the inclement weather, will catch out some teams who might lose their form, so it’s important we keep up the pace and work hard.
“The lads started the year with a lot of confidence off the back of a win over Bradford Town on Boxing Day, so I’m hoping we can carry that momentum into our upcoming games and through the rest of the season.
“I still believe that to be doing so well with no budget and with local players is a phenomenal achievement, and this is set to be one of the most exciting years in the club’s history as we get ready to move to Woolmore Farm.”