Derby double header opens up men’s pre season
The Men’s 1st XI start their extended preseason with two games this weekend against Milton Keynes and Bedford on Saturday and Sunday respectively. Both games are at Moulton water base with the push backs at 13.30.
Both days will see a maximum squad of fifteen players on each day that will feature established national league experience, Northants county players, youth development names and exciting new signings.
According to Head coach Christian Howard, it represents the approach for the main season “we’ve evaluated last season and taken on the best points that led to a wonderful finish. What’s vitally important for the group right now is looking forward, setting big targets and forming a solid base of tactics over the pre-season fixture list.”
15 players will feature in each match-day squad at the home water base this weekend
Forming a strong team ethic
The two weekend games come on the back of a month of pitch and classroom sessions to prepare the players fitness. What has been very noticeable is the high numbers and commitment to all the sessions that has meant the coaching team can get a true picture of where each individual is in respect to sharpness and attitude.
Increasing the goal count
The squads for the weekend are set up for goal scoring; with the new look balance of the forward line. At least four new forwards will be on show across the weekend including some returning familiar faces.
Howard points out “we’ve kept the key elements from last year, but what we are looking for this weekend is how the competition in the squad is shaping up. Crucially, it’s about evaluating movements, working together in patterns and putting the ball in the net when it matters.”
Enjoyment
What is clear from the messaging out of the camp so far is the underlying attention to hard work, team commitment and enjoying the journey.
Watchers at Moulton this weekend will see an opportunity for players to test fitness levels, learn new formations and begin the winning mentality.