TT PREVIEW

James discusses his team

SEASON SO FAR

The season has again been up and down. A goodish start, followed by a period of injuries and poor form in the middle, and now we are 11 games unbeaten (although a few too many draws in there).

RECENT FORM

Recent form has been good but frustrating in terms of drawing games which I believe we should have won. We haven’t lost since mid-January but there have been a few too many draws in there, 2-2 against Hampton when they equalised late on, 2-2 against Chelmsford when we lead 2-1 and hit the woodwork 4 times and last night against Maidstone when they equalised late on to draw 1-1. Not the ideal time for these results when the team is pushing for the league title

STRENGTHS & WEAKNESSES

Strengths have been the amount of goals scored, I think in all steps we had the second highest recently, and that number should probably be higher with some of the chances we have missed! Defensively we can lack concentration at times – and game management to see results out has been frustrating at times as well so if you are losing by one goal don’t think about leaving early against us!

HIGHLIGHTS

The highlight for me has been two things. One has been the return to form and fitness of Alfie Rutherford and the second was Charlie Carters hat-trick on his return against Chelmsford after his baby was born with the difficulties he was going through and experiencing off the pitch, it showed how much more to life there is than this sport.

KEY PLAYERS

Key players have probably changed at times due to injuries and the like. Some of the consistent performers for me have been Dan Gallagher who has played so many positions and always gives everything for the side. Another is Jimmy Muitt on the right and occasionally left wing who continues to provide assists and get goals himself.

THE MANAGER

I actually think Marc has mellowed this season. I think he has calmed a bit and become quite calm post match when things haven’t perhaps gone to plan. He is surrounded by good people at the club and I do think there is a more professional element now which comes from him and the CEO Jon Bines.

POSSIBLE LINE-UP

Line-up wise I wouldn’t expect many changes from last evening against Maidstone – Foulkes, Camp, Craig, Milsom, Muitt, Carter, Taylor, Gallagher, Norville-Williams, Prior, Rutherford.

PRE-MATCH

There are several pubs very easy walking distance from the ground. West Street has a few good pubs and also Cobbetts microbrewery. Just up on South Street is the Spotted Dog which is another good pre-match venue.

BEST OPPOSITION

Best opposition is a tough one. B’Wood were good against us at home when we played them, Worthing as well. I’m not sure any sides have really stood out this season, in stark contrast to the last two in the NL.

PROMOTION CHANCES

This question is one where head rules heart. I dont think we will go up as league winners, but probably through the playoffs. Where we finish the season however is anyone’s guess!