IT’s been a tough pre-season for Melksham Town FC after the disappointment of not being promoted to the Southern League, following their league title win last season, but manager Darren Perrin is optimistic for the coming campaign.
Despite finishing last season on a high after winning the Western Football League, Melksham Town FC had to deal with the news that they could not be promoted to the Southern League due to their new ground at Woolmore Farm not being ready on time.
Manager Darren Perrin said, “It was really hard for the lads and for everyone, when we found out. We got told really late so we didn’t have time to sort our current ground out.”
But Darren and the team are looking forward to the season and have moved past the disappointment now. “I think we have all moved on and are now focused on what we’ve got to do. The majority of the players we’ve kept, apart from one or two. A couple have had offers from other teams but they’re sticking with us. It’s a testament to the lads’ commitment and loyalty to the team.
“We’ve got faith in last year’s squad so we haven’t made any new signings. And we are looking to bring in some of the younger guys to play; there’s some very promising talent in the younger squad.
“The pre-season friendlies have been good. We’ve won two and lost two but the two we lost were against Southern League opposition and we showed great strength and only lost 2-1 in both games.
“The new season has come around quick but we are ready to go. As champions, everyone will want to beat us, so we need to be ready. We are looking forward to what will hopefully be another successful season for the club and for the Melksham community.”
Town Fixtures: Melksham Town FC are at home to Clevedon Town for their first match of the season, on 8th August (3pm KO), and then welcome Longwell Green Sports on Monday 10th August for an evening kick off at 7.30pm. They host their first FA Cup game against Crowes Sports on the 15th August and then are away to Odd Down on the 22nd.
