This Friday night the Hillians season begins when we travel to Middlesex to face Combined Counties Premier South side Spelthorne Sports in the FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round (kick off 7:45pm).
There’s been plenty of exciting changes on the pitch throughout the summer and we caught up with joint-manager Jay Lovett this week.
Lovett said “It’s been an exciting end of season to pre-season as so many changes have been made. Many new faces have come through the door as well as myself coming in as Co-Manager with Gary.”
“Gary, Lewis and I sat down and identified what we want from our players on and off the pitch. We wanted to create a challenging changing room and a team that constantly pushes each other, but also a changing room that’s a team full of mates that get along with each other. As with anything, it takes time for it all to blend together, but you can see that family feel starting to take shape.”
“On the pitch we used the first few friendlies to try different tactics out, give plenty of minutes amongst the players to build their fitness up and in the last two games we have swapped less players around and most have had a good 75 plus minute run out. Pre-season for me is all about building, sometimes you have to take a step back in order to make things better going forward, it gives you the chance to try things that no other part of the season really gives you with the results not being the end means.”
“We are discovering a lot about players individually and as a team and of course they are learning about us.”
“We feel the preparation has gone well and we are excited to start competitive games and see what the season brings.”
“As always, our fans have been extremely supportive, even in away games that they have had to travel 1hr 30mins. They have come out in force and we look forward to more of it in the season. Volunteers and staff at the club have provided us with everything we need and the pitch is also looking great. Here’s to a promising season ahead.”
The winners of the tie will be at home to Eastbourne Town or Little Common.
Ground details can be found HERE
