Chris Roberts delighted to be playing again after nine-month hiatus
Llangefni Town manager Chris Roberts is delighted to be playing again as they play Llanrhaeadr this weekend.
After nine months since their last fixture, the Anglesey based side return to competitive football with an away trip to the Recreation Field in Round One of the Nathaniel MG Cup.
He said: “We can’t wait, it’s been a long few months without a competitive game of football so we’re all looking forward to Saturdays game.”
“It wasn’t the best draw we could have had, especially being away from home and having to travel down there for a 1:30pm kick off as they don’t have floodlights.
“We are just pleased to be able to return to competitive football. We know it’s going to be a tough game and a challenge we are all relishing.”
The Llangefni boss has been delighted with the commitment of his squad during their preparations ahead of the game.
“It’s been good we have a good bunch of honest lads who want to play for the club,” stated Roberts. We have a great mix of experience as well as youth which I think is vital for us to be able to progress from last season.
“The lads have been working really hard and considering we were in a long period of uncertainty in regards to whether the league would start or not.
“They’ve remained focused and committed to ensure that when the time came and we were called upon we would be ready which I think just shows the drive and hunger from our boys.”
Llangefni are competing in the MG Cup for the second consecutive season after securing their place in the second tier for a consecutive season.
They finished 13th last season which Roberts deemed as an achievement, as well as the most educational season he’s had at the club.
“That was a fantastic achievement from everyone involved at the club,” stressed the former Glantraeth boss.
“It was our first season back in the second tier and to be able to compete with some of the wage budgets being thrown about and then manage to stay in it was brilliant.
“I’d say last season was the season I learnt the most from my time as being a manager and now that I am here managing in the second tier I will look for progression on last season.”
Roberts and his side will have to replicate their heroics of last season in a different setting this year
The Cymru North has been shortened to a 15-game season due to the coronavirus pandemic, making for an exciting season ahead.
Teams will be drawn at random to host eight games and play away seven times, which will play a huge part in both the top and bottom end of the table.
“I think with having only 15 games to play and playing everybody once means anything can happen.
“It’s so important that we are consistent and manage to get a run of results go our way early. It’s sure to be exciting and we will not be the team to roll over for anyone.”
“We have to go into every game and into the start of the season with the right mindset.
“It might change my outlook on what is needed in terms of reaching our goal/target but the target remains the same.”
“I wouldn’t have it any other way I’ve always been up for a challenge and believe you me to compete in this league with the resources available to me it certainly is that but I’ve shocked people in the past let’s do it again!”
(Featured Image: Gafyn Buckland)
