Barkingside boss seeks steady start
Barkingside's Richard Oxby (right) is suspended for the first few games of the new season (Gavin Ellis/TGSPHOTO) - Credit: Gavin Ellis/TGSPHOTO
Frew stepping into the unknown
Barkingside kick off their Ryman Division One North campaign against Cheshunt tomorrow (Saturday) and manager Matt Frew is hoping they can avoid defeat in the opening fixture at Oakside.
Frew spoke about how it will be different for his team after promotion from the Essex Senior League, but he is sure they will perform well.
“It is completely new for us,” added Frew.
“It is important that you look at other teams but I haven’t had a chance to see them (Cheshunt).
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“We go into it new and I’m pretty sure if we play how I know we can, we will be fine.
“The priority is to avoid defeat in that first game because you don’t want to be played one, lost one, so that is priority.”
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Chas Liddiard, Dan Mackin and Richard Oxby are unavailable for the first fixture but Frew hopes other players step up in their absence.
Frew said: “I’ve got an inkling of my starting XI. There are a couple of positions I shall think about.
“We go into the season missing three big players. Richard Oxby, an ever present for me last season and my vice captain is suspended for four games.
“Dan Mackin, a left-sided player misses the first game, he is away due to his brother getting married.
“Then Chas Liddiard, which is a blow. He has a stag do and he’ll miss that first match.
“It’s one of those things but we have a big enough squad to cope and it’s a chance for other players.”
Following tomorrow’s game, Side visit Harlow Town on Tuesday and will have to play on a 3G pitch.
Frew admitted it will be a tough prospect for his team but accepts it will be the same for every team visiting Barrows Farm Stadium this season.
He added: “Tuesday against Harlow will be interesting, the big spenders of the league everyone has told me.
“They have the money and are playing ridiculous wages. They have a new 3G pitch which we have to adjust to as well.
“I don’t really like 3G pitches, I don’t mind training on them but it will be different for our players.
“It will be flatter and have no bobbles but will run quicker.
“They (Harlow) will have adjusted to the surface having played and trained on it but everyone has to go there so it’s the same for everyone.”
