FECKENHAM FC'S TOM DAVIES WRITES, PRIOR TO THE GAME AT FC STRATFORD...

Head Coach Tom Davies answers The Mowdog’s questions about Feckenham FC, as the team prepares for the visit to FC Stratford onTuesday evening: 

You've had a good season so far. What are your ambitions this term?   

“Simply to win as many games as possible. Cliché wise, we’re playing each game as it comes and focusing on ourselves each match. By focusing on improving ourselves each week, we remove excuses and keep developing our collective game. It’s more of a let's enjoy playing, aim to win each week and see where it takes us.”

If you should go up, where are you planning on playing your matches in Division 1 next season?  

“That’s one you’d need to ask the powers that be. We know that conversations have been had with various people and places, however as always our focus is on the team and ensuring that we’re in a position on the pitch that requires this to happen.”

Your team appears to be close-knit. Any reason for that?  

“Aaron & I had the majority of this group 2 years ago whilst in charge of Feckenham but there are a range of factors. A lot of the boys are from the same area, they grew up together and/or have played together for a while now. We've spent a lot of time together too, pre & post game as well as at social events which all helps but ultimately it’s the drive to succeed and win games of football.”

COLE ATTACKING v BOLEHALL...

Do you see the club moving on to the Premier division and beyond?  

“You never want to limit anyone or the ambitions of the club for future years and there’s always the hope that the club continues to grow on and off the field. However it’s not something we’re planning for now, as there are so many clubs with similar ambitions and quality players. We’re just focused on ourselves, this season and working as hard as we can.”

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What do you look for in your players?

“Players who buy into what we’re trying to achieve and how we’re going about it. We’re honest with how we go about our business and that’s reflected in the group we have; they're a hardworking and talented group, so anyone who comes here needs to add to that.”

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Is the passing game something you want the players to work at?

“Yes. Every team wants to play an attractive style of football, however you have to be realistic with pitches, contact time with players and the opportunity to implement styles. It’s more important that we make positive decisions in and out of possession. We’ll look to play when we can, move the ball at tempo and play exciting football but there are times, especially under pressure when we won’t force the issue and we’ll play the percentages. It’s more important for us that we don’t concede goals and that our work rate in all aspects of the game is second to none.”

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Which teams have you both played for and coached during your careers?

“I played the whole of my youth football with Cadburys from a young age up to U16’s then decided coaching was the route I'd have more success in. I’ve worked at Alvechurch (Youth, Floodlit & First Team), Highgate United, University of Worcester Mens, Wolves Women, Stoke Women and Cheltenham Town Ladies.

I know Aaron played most of his foundation football for teams like Stratford Town, Harvington and Studley, before managing U18s floodlit teams at Studley FC and Highgate United and prior to being at Feckenham he had his first taste of senior management with West Midlands Regional League outfit Bartley Green Illey FC.” 

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What are your thoughts about the FC Stratford game on 21st January?  

“These are the types of games you look forward to and are excited to be a part of. Both sides will have complete belief they can win the game and both sides have been on fantastic runs so far this season. It’s under the lights and the first meeting between the sides, so it’s set to be an interesting game.”

'KEEPER YOUNG IN ACTION v BOLEHALL...

Thanks to Tom for taking the time to answer the questions!

Pete

(‘The Mowdog’…)