I only hope we can learn from last year’s mistakes and be prepared for whatever this tough league throws our way, says Greenwich Borough boss Ian Jenkins

GREENWICH BOROUGH boss Ian Jenkins says he has his best ever squad at his disposal at the club this season.

Greenwich Borough were tipped to comfortably walk away with the Southern Counties East Football League title last season but the club had to settle for a top-four spot, finishing 19 points behind promoted champions Phoenix Sports.

However, it would be fair to say that Boro’ saved their best performances for cup competitions.

The Dartford-based club reached The FA Cup Fourth and final qualifying round for the first time in their history, losing 2-1 away to Conference North side Worcester City, who went on to dump Coventry City out of the competition in the next round.

Jenkins guided the club to The FA Vase Fourth Round and also completed a domestic cup double by winning both the Kent Senior Trophy and League Cup.

And last week they defeated Phoenix Sports 2-1 to claim the Roy Vinter Challenge Shield.

Greenwich Borough are expected to battle it out with Paul Chambers’ Ashford United to claim the league title this season.

“Pre-season in general has gone well,” Jenkins told the club website.

“The coaching staff set up six weeks of intense but enjoyable training. Long gone are the old days of road runs and park runs – footballs out from day one. Short sharp sessions to get the players use to playing the way I want them to.

“Touch wood we haven’t had any serious injuries only minor ones like blisters and aches and pains. Nothing that (our physio) is too concerned about.”

Jenkins has unveiled new signings in the shape of Michael Power, Matt Parsons, Callum McGeehan, Jessie Darko and Peter Sweeney this summer.

Jenkins has already set the tone on his aspirations, by saying: “All of our signings have all fitted in really well, added to those we’ve retained from last year the squad is as good as I’ve had in all my years in management.

“I only hope we can learn from last year’s mistakes and be prepared for whatever this tough league throws our way.” 

Reflecting on their victory over Ryman League Division One North side Phoenix Sports last weekend, Jenkins said: “Last week we won 2-1 at last year’s champions to pick up our first piece of silverware. Let’s hope it’s not the last!

“It was a very tight game which we didn’t really show what we have been in recent games but going behind so early the team showed great character to win 2-1.

“Good luck to Steve (O’Boyle) and all his team (this) season in the Ryman North League.”

Greenwich Borough kick-off their Southern Counties East Football League campaign with a trip to Rochester United on Saturday, followed by a trip to former landlords Holmesdale next Wednesday.

Jenkins said: “Both are difficult places to get results but I’m sure with performances like we’ve produced of late we can start with maximum points.”

Greenwich Borough then host league rivals Lordswood in The FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round on Sunday 16 August, at Dartford’s Princes Park Stadium.

“It’s a shame we’ve drawn a side from our league but with home advantage I’m confident we can progress through.

“How nice would it be to go one further than we did last season and reach the First Round proper – with the squad we have here that’s very possible.”

Jenkins added: “We will try our upmost to entertain you playing football how it should be.”

Visit Greenwich Borough’s website: www.greenwichboroughfc.co.uk

Rochester United  v  Greenwich Borough
Southern Counties East Football League
Saturday 8^th August 2015
Kick Off 3:00pm
at Rede Court Road, Strood, Rochester, Kent ME2 3TU