Davies encouraged by pre-season build-up (From Gazette Series)

Davies encouraged by pre-season build-up

New Coaley manager Julian Davies has been encouraged by the attitude of his new charges in the build up to the new season.

"I cannot fault their attitude or commitment in training or in the friendlies," said Davies.

"We regularly get between 25 and 30 at training and although it has been pretty tough, everyone has really entered into the spirit."

Coaley has won one, drawn one and lost two of their pre-season friendlies but Davies has seen a steady progression in each game.

"We lost the first game against Minchinhampton 2-1 after being 1-0 up at the break. We just weren't fit enough to last the 90 minutes and paid for it.

"We lost 1-0 at Leonard Stanley but should have won. They only had one shot on target all game and we missed a lot of chances.

"We beat Berkeley Res 1-0 in a tight game, but our fitness had obviously improved as we were on t op in the final quarter."

A 0-0 draw against Nibley concluded the pre-season and Davies said: "They are a well-organised side and had a good season last year, but we showed a great deal of resilience in the second half to get the draw."

As yet, due to work commitments and holidays, Davies has not been able to choose from his full squad, but is confident about the upcoming campaign. 'Our defence is pretty solid, but we need to improve in front of goal, and we will be working hard on that before the big kick off. We are aiming to be challenging at the end of the season."

Former Dursley Town stalwarts Dave Trinder and Nigel Hart have joined Davies at Coaley.

"They are both great signings for the club and will help both on and off the pitch and I am still hoping to bring in at least one more experienced player to add to the squad we already have," added Davies.