A speculative WhatsApp message has led to goalkeeper, Joel Manning, making his Southern League return with Westbury United.
The 21 year-old ended last season playing in the Hellenic League Premier Division with Roman Glass St. George but boasts plenty of Step 4 experience following spells with the likes of Cinderford Town, Melksham Town and Tiverton Town.
“I took a bit of a gamble,” he admitted to us. “I didn’t really know what the goalkeeping situation was at the club, but I messaged Ricky [Hulbert, manager] to let him know that I was available and looking for a club.
“I already knew that Westbury were a close-knit group having played against them before and this is what has made them difficult to beat and able to overcome adversity in recent seasons.
“I was delighted when Ricky replied and asked me to come in to training, so things have gone from there really and I could not be happier.
“I’ve already been made to feel really welcome and I’m buzzing for the action to start, to be honest. It’s felt like such a long close season for me, wondering where I’d go, but now I am ready, nothing beats competitive action.
“It will be interesting to see what we can achieve this season. There’s a positive atmosphere around the place, pre-season has been everything you would want; first and foremost, we’ve gelled as a group and we’ve been able to take things from there.
“We all understand what the management want from us and it’s exciting. Having been around this League for a couple of years, this season is the strongest it has looked in that time.
“Some people might shy away from the challenge, but I’m ready to face it head on and show what I can do against some real quality players.
“I just want to have a consistent season in terms of playing regularly and in my performance levels. Obviously it will be nice to keep as many clean sheets as possible, but we’ll take things a step at a time and see where it takes us.”
After finishing last season just below half-way in the Pitching In Southern League Division One South table, the club are eager to make the top half, but before that they have an Emirates FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round clash with Sherborne Town to face at the weekend as they look to make more memories in the famous old competition having beaten AFC Totton last term.
IMAGE: Westbury United FC
Most clubs are looking for volunteers. Find out more on the button below:
www.PitchingInVolunteers.co.ukAll the news and results in one place.
REGISTER