As we look forward to what will hopefully be a full season after the trials and tribulations of the last eighteen months, we asked Manager Kevin Watson to give us his thoughts on preparation for the coming campaign and the progress the Club have been making off the pitch.
Speaking before our opening pre-season friendly match at Grays Athletic, Kevin told us, -

“At the end of the second week of pre-season we reflect on the start of our preparations for the 21/22 campaign. Due to the COVID disruptions and extended gap between seasons, we purposefully planned a slightly longer than usual pre-season of eight weeks. During the first two weeks, we have trained together twice a week to give players extra time for their personal conditioning needs. From next week we will be together three times a week for the next six weeks and beyond.

Pre-season friendlies commence next week, and at present we have seven scheduled - although we may potentially add one more. The matches will be invaluable to our preparation as players develop match fitness and tactical awareness. Our opposition are all of an equivalent level or above in terms of league status, so it will be competitive and a good gauge for where we are at. We plan to use the game time strategically to taper the number of minutes played by individuals in accordance with their need. As a management team, we have been generally pleased with the physical condition in which the players have returned. In modern day football, a strong baseline of fitness is even more important as the intensity of the game continues to increase in many respects.

We are currently working with 20-22 players. They consist of players that have already signed and have been announced, some trialists, and a few players who have progressed from the youth section of the Club or Under 23’s. Early exposure to the senior teams for the younger players is essential in their development.

We are especially looking forward to our home fixture next Saturday. Our home ground has been greatly improved over the last few years and credit must go to all those that have contributed to the works - not least the two pitches which have again had much investment and will be in great condition.

You may also have seen that a new shirt sponsor has been secured for the forthcoming season. It is great to have Lightship Chartering on board and we hope for a fruitful partnership together.

We look forward to welcoming you all to the ground soon.”