13thaug04

Tunbridge Wells will be happy with a top six finish

TUNBRIDGE WELLS manager Kevin Metcalf has recently returned from a family fishing holiday in France and has now re-charged his batteries ready to help fish the Go Travel Kent League club out of troubled waters, writes Stephen McCartney.

Years of struggle at Culverden Stadium have seen crowds drop dramatically, but Metcalf has given fans an opportunity to return for a second look of the team  for Saturday's league opener against Whitstable Town, and see "a young and improving side, playing good football," he said.

Metcalf admitted: "I think our pre-season friendlies have been a continued improvement and we are improving all the time."

Former Ashford Town coach Martin Telford has "steered the ship" during Metcalf's absence, however, but the duo are working hard on and off the pitch to bring success back to the club.

Metcalf added: "Basically, it's a new squad of players, and Martin and I have looked at who we wanted to bring to the club."

After many years of finishing at the wrong end of the table, the former Tenderten Town boss admitted he will be happy with a top-six finish.

He said: "We are looking for a top half position in the league at the end of the season.  However, if we can get a top six place then we will be happy."

Unable to look at his side in the two weeks leading up to the league opener at Culverden Stadium against Whitstable, Metcalf has spoken to his number two as they prepare for the visit from the Belmont outfit.

Metcalf added: "I am looking forward to it.  I've just spoken to Martin and we are both looking forward to the game, against a team who will be in the top three."

Tunbridge Wells make the short trip to Sevenoaks Town - a side they completed the double over at the end of the last campaign - but Metcalf insisted form goes out of the window when it's a local derby clash.

He said: "Again, I am looking forward to Sevenoaks and I think we can forget about last year.  It's a local derby and anything can happen in them."

He added: "I am looking forward to Saturday's game to see how far we have come.  I am sure Martin has steered the ship well in my absence."

Tunbridge Wells vs Whitstable Town
Go Travel Kent League Premier Division
Saturday 14th August 2004
Kick off 3:00 at Culverden Stadium, Culverden Down, Tunbridge Wells