It’s been another solid season for Royston Town. Tipped by many from outside the club to struggle in what is becoming an increasingly tough and competitive Pitching In Southern League Premier Central, they more than held their own, finishing in the middle of the table and also enjoying some good results in the Emirates FA Cup.
“Overall I am happy with the season we’ve had,” manager, Chris Watters, told us. “We were widely tipped to be amongst the lower-placed teams, so to be clinging on to the play-offs until February was pleasing.
“Our record against the top six has been good this season; we’ve really showed what we are capable of and also beat Bedford Town and Aveley in the FA Cup before eventually losing to Peterborough Sports after a replay, so again it’s positives.
“We’ve done it all with a large element of inexperience and youth in our team, which makes it extra special. I don’t feel like there have been any real lows this season. Of course, there have been times which have been tougher than others or frustrating, but we are on a good path.
“Scoring goals became an issue towards the end of the season, but sometimes it’s just one of those things and these players will benefit from the experiences they have had this term, which will stand them in good stead for next season and I am expecting that to be an even tougher challenge.
“There are a lot of high calibre footballers at this level and the quality is improving all of the time. No games are easy and we have to work extremely hard for what we get. Losing a few local games has been a blow to us for next year, but we’ll be ready to face whatever comes our way.”
Watters was quick to praise the support he has received from his backroom team as the Crows perched themselves in 11th place with 57 points to their name.
“I simply couldn’t do this without them,” he added. “I’m very mindful that it’s my name above the door and the good and bad is aimed towards me; however, they know it’s not how we work behind-the-scenes and they know how much I value them.
“My job is to have the last say, not the only say, and the input that I get is invaluable.
“Now as we enter the closed season, retention of the squad is the main focus, that’s priority one for us. We know that we need to add depth in a couple of positions, so that will be next on the to do list.
“After that we will get the lads as ready and prepared to hit the ground running at the start of the new season as we can. Our aim will be to win every match that we’re involved in; it’s unlikely, I know, but there is a winning mindset here.
“Progress to me will be seen as beating this season’s finishing position, especially given what the League will look like next season. It’s also a chance for our younger players to continue pushing on and showing what they can do and making their mark at this level.
“There is a lot for us to look forward to.”
IMAGE: Kev Richards
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