Romulus Weekly Update

ROMULUS boss Richard Evans was buoyant this week ahead of his side’s opening pre-season friendly against Kidderminster Harriers (Saturday, KO 3pm) as he hopes this summer’s extra training will pay dividends.

The Roms face the full time Blue Square Bet Premier outfit after a gruelling pre-season schedule that started way back on 23rd June, and Evans believes, along with the addition of experienced players, that the early start will stand his squad in good stead.

Evans said: “Dave [Barnett, Roms coach] always puts the lads through their paces, but we’ve come back even earlier this season to hit the ground running.

“The lads are really fit but it will be a couple of weeks before they find their levels – we’re expecting some tired legs in the first couple of games because we have worked them very hard.

“Not only have we started earlier, but we have raised the tempo a bit as well – we’re looking fitter and sharper, and it has been useful because we’ve had more chance to cast our eye over a few new players.

“Our problem wasn’t fitness last season, it was drawing too many games and a lack of experience in key areas, but we are definitely fitter this year.”

Evans has already tried to remedy that lack of knowhow by recruiting Paul Devlin and Marcus Jackson to his squad of 13 existing players.

The Roms boss was tight lipped this week on other potential targets, but said that further announcements on the squad were not far away.

“We will continue to bring in players who are experienced at this level and will help give us that cutting edge.

“We’ll be taking a look at some in the coming games and judging them over the first few friendlies – they have to compliment what we have as many of the younger lads will now be a year better rather than a year older.”

*ROMULUS supporters are reminded that all under 16’s will be granted free admission to Saturday’s game with Kidderminster. Paul Devlin is set to make his debut and the club will have a 12-page matchday programme on sale for 50p.

Andy Mitchell.