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Gate boss on preparations for the season ahead
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With training underway ahead of Margate’s Ryman League Premier Division campaign, manager Iain O’Connell continues to look forward to the new season with optimism.
The Blues held a training session at Hartsdown on Saturday and the Gate boss was pleased with the fitness of the players. “Most of the players looked in good shape; they looked fit and were sharp in training,” he said. “Siggy particularly; for 32, he looked in great shape.”
There were a number of trialists looking to impress the manager, and one or two did. “Two trialists looked good in the session, so we’ll see what happens there,” he said.
In looking at the players he has at the club, the trialists and others he might want to bring in, Iain is looking for some degree of versatility. “I like to be able to play different systems for different games; sometimes depending on the opposition. So the players need to comfortable with 5-3-2 and 4-4-2, and that applies to players right through the side; defence, midfield and attack,” Iain explained.
The friendly fixtures represent a good change for the squad to gel and to get time on the ball. “Whilst I’d love to get a big side down here (to Hartsdown Park) and make a bit of money for the club, the friendlies we have will help our preparation for the new season. The games will be relatively competitive and should give our boys some time on the ball. And often, you don’t get that playing a league side,” he explained.
The boss was delighted to retain John Keister for the new campaign as Player / Coach / Assistant Manager. “John’s an excellent coach,” he said. “He has lots of experience, has a great rapport with the boys and they respect him and he can have a laugh with them as well.”
“I need a coach I can trust and I know I can trust John to get on and do the coaching so I can concentrate on tactics and man management.”
So how close to the final squad does the Margate manager think he is? “I reckon we’re about three quarters of the way there. There are budgetary considerations, but I’d like to bring another couple of players in.
“Supporters can rest assured that we’re working hard to get a good squad together; one that we expect to be challenging at the right end of the table this time round.” |
05 Jul 2010 by Steve Wells
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