Meir KA Bench Talk

Welcome to the fourth consecutive game at Tally Ho in this new season as we seek that first win that currently eludes us. Whilst we remain unbeaten, last Saturdays draw against Feckenham was a disappointing result as we fought out our third consecutive draw.

Due to work and holiday commitments we had to make five changes to the starting line-up from the Alvechurch game and our first half performance was lacking in verve as the players failed to knit effectively together. It is clearly one of the early season difficulties we are going to have to overcome as we seek to blend the team together despite all the absences created by the requirements of our job.

Our second half performance was an improvement but our failure to take the goal opportunities as they arose cost us dearly. Kevin Usher scrambled a goal 10 minutes into the second period only to see Feckenham equalise 10 minutes later through a very contentious penalty. We were refused a penalty of our own in the dying minutes when one of their players clearly handled the ball in the penalty area but unfortunately no whistle followed.

One of the lessons the lads must learn is not to take the easy option when playing in a game where they have the upper hand. We have to develop a harder edge to our game that enables us to take advantage of these periods of play so that we can take control of matches.

Tonight should see the first appearance of Andy Reece this season with Neil Hornby and Darren Wilkinson also available for selection after returning from their holidays. Gavin Smith will also be in the running for a place after missing last Saturday' game. Carl Hancox's groin injury makes him doubtful with Lyndon Price and Jamie Evans both unavailable. There is also some doubt as to whether Dayle Speed and Dave Blake will be able to escape from work and I am trying to get Paul Webb and Alex Holden available from their studies although there has to be a doubt over Alex's fitness following his chest injury last Saturday.

No. I haven't got a clue what my team will be at the time of writing this article on Sunday evening! What has been pleasing is that the team has shown a high level of commitment and willingness to play for each other in these early games, which we now have to achieve on a consistent level throughout the season. We cannot expect to play well all the time but if we are to achieve anything we have to play with discipline and a purpose throughout.

We hope that you enjoy the game and wish everyone from Meir a safe journey home.