Desire back for new-look Town (From Cotswold Journal)

Desire back for new-look Town

10:00am Thursday 26th July 2012 in Football

PERSHORE Town manager Gary Aldington hopes his reinvigorated side can cement an Athium Midland Combination Premier Division place after finishing second-from-bottom last campaign.

The boss predicts the King George V Playing Fields football side can push for mid-table by Christmas, but remains intent that retaining their status is the priority.

“This pre-season is looking hopeful, there is a desire and good spirit around the place, and we have some great support around the club,” he said.

“We had plenty of experienced players last year, but there was a distinct lack of commitment, some that didn’t want to train and play.”

Aldington, who replaced Neil Hunt as manager after being assistant last term, has seen 20 new faces arrive this summer with less than a quarter of last season’s squad staying on.

“They’re youthful, the average age of the squad at the moment is around 22, but most of them have experience at this level, although we could do with a few experienced players to bring the age up slightly,” he added.

Pershore host Tuffley Rovers on Saturday (3pm) in a friendly and continue their preparations by welcoming neighbours Evesham United next Tuesday (7.45pm).

They have so far tested themselves against Midland Alliance outfits, losing 1-0 to Westfields and 3-0 to both Stratford Town and Tipton Town. Pershore are on the look-out for a physio and anyone interested can call Aldington on 07747 767638.

• Littleton manager Andy Robbins predicts his side can finish in the Athium Midland Football Combination Premier Division top 10 this season after a successful summer.

The boss has brought in eight new faces to freshen up an already strong squad with the newly-promoted side gracing the top-flight for the first time.

The Pebworth Road club spent more than £50,000 on floodlights as an entry requirement for the league and Robbins says his team will compete in the tophalf of the table.

“This is the strongest Littleton squad I can remember,” he said.