The Big Kick Off Looms

Hadlow United prepare for the new season with a lot to look forward to.  After establishing themselves in division five last term, this year they have set sights on the summit.

With a some new faces around the place the United dressing room is buzzing with anticipation, with four pre season friendlies under their belts already, its the performances that have been more important than the results as United look to bed in their new faces.

Amongst the players leaving the club this year is MK, who after struggling against injury for the past three seasons, was able to only show glimpses of the talent that he undoubtedly has.  Following MK out of the door also is Ash Smith-Foreman who has also been on the wrong side of the physio's door, both players intend to travel later in the year and the club would like to thank them both for their services and wish them well in the future.  Also leaving is goalkeeper Terry Miles who had a mixed season last term, in to replace him is Lewis Kurten, an experienced goalkeeper with bundles of ability, he could well prove to be the finishing piece of our defensive jigsaw.

Another absentee from the squad is Greig Donnelly, who was inspirational with his wing play last term, unfortunately he is still suffering from the ankle injury he picked in the final game of last season.  Mike Shimell, the club treasurer and full back has retired from the game and has indeed stepped down from position as treasurer, in his absence Owen Walsh looks to have won the right back position with some high energy displays in pre-season.  Club captain Matt Betts has taken over the position of club treasurer.

As well as Lewis signing for the club there have been other new faces too.  Andrew Howie and Richard "Magic" Bellars.  Andrew can play anywhere across the back four and will be challenging starting line-up after impressing in spells in either full back position during pre-season.  Magic can operate on either flank is blessed with bags of pace, his final ball is accurate and once a full understanding has been built up with the rest of the team could be pivotal in Hadlow's season.

Also returning to the club is Daniel Webb after his move to Ramsfield failed to work out, also with Cooper, Bridges and Phil Betts back in the fold on a permanent basis things are looking up.

The only major injury worry for United is last years Players Player of the Season, Dave Carlton.  The unlucky defender has again been plagued with a knee injury, but after an exploratory operation the knee became infected and slowed the recovery process, but an upbeat Carlton insists he will back and is aiming for an October return.