August 06th 2009

Epsom Downs Reserves player / secretary Nick 'Crouchbot' Sponder, believes his Reserves squad are now better than ever, thanks to an excellent campaign last time out, and good pre season training regime.

" After a slow start we began to find our feet a bit more and play some decent football. We always gave the teams who were at the top a good run for their money. Im certain we can challenge for honours this year inboth league and cup competitions. "

Sponder has generally stuck with the same group of players that have stayed true to him for the last 2 years.

" I've got a great bunch of guys here, I wouldn't say no to any new players as long as they cut the mustard. "

Sponder also enjoys the luxury of 2 keepers within his squad, with Alex 'Milky' Maynard and Steven 'Mini Duncs' Duncan both willing and able to perform between the sticks.

" It's a great scenario to have. 2 quality keepers. I understand the 1sts are having a bit of trouble with a keeper at the moment, but Im sure they'll pull something out of the bag. We're also lucky in the fact that Steve can play on pitch, he even bagged a couple of goals last season. "

The Reserves face their first pre season match against unknown rivals Woodside Athletic on the 16th August.

" Hopefully we'll do well, usually we only play against the 1sts in pre season as well as train, but this will be a good test and set a benchmark for the season. "

Sponder is also chuffed to be ground sharing with the 1sts, and believes the 2 sides can make new home ground Molesey Hurst a 'fortress' in the coming seasons.

" It'll be good, we look forward to it. The surface looks decent and the facilities look good. Hopefully we'll start the season with a few wins and make people scared to come and play us. We'll see how it goes. "

Next Match:

Epsom Downs Vs Wickham Wanderers - 29/11/2009 (GA Cup)

Epsom Downs Reserves Vs AFC Old Bank - 29/11/09 (Div 8)

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