Croesyceiliog manager James Kinsella believes his side have the quality to become one of the teams to beat in the Ardal South East League this season, but insists consistency will be key if they are to turn their potential into a serious promotion challenge.
The Cockerels have made encouraging progress in recent weeks, losing just once in their last five league fixtures, with that defeat coming against current league leaders Abergavenny Town.
Kinsella is pleased with the attitude within his squad and believes there is plenty more to come from his players as they look to improve on last season’s performances.
Speaking ahead of Croesyceiliog’s meeting with Newport Corinthians, the manager acknowledged the challenge facing his team but was confident they could take something from the encounter.
Kinsella expects tough Newport Corinthians test
Kinsella knows his side will have to be at their best against Newport Corinthians, particularly after suffering defeat to them in the cup a few weeks ago.
“They’re a very tough side; this whole division is tough, it doesn’t matter who you play. We were beaten by them in the cup a few weeks ago,” he said.
The Croesyceiliog boss believes the midfield battle could prove decisive, with both sides having developed since their previous meeting.
“In terms of where the game could be won or lost, I think the midfield battle will be tough; it’s going to be tough, they’re a different side to the team we played a few weeks ago, and we’re now a different team.
“It’ll also be down to who can take their chance; I would like to think that would be us, as our front line is very clinical.”
Late goals earn Croesyceiliog a point against Chepstow
Croesyceiliog head into the fixture after an entertaining 2-2 draw against Chepstow Town in the Ardal South East League.
The Cockerels found themselves two goals behind at half-time but produced a late response, with Thomas Meechan and Jack Sainsbury both finding the net in the final eight minutes to secure a point.
Kinsella was pleased with his players’ performance, particularly their determination to fight their way back into the contest.
“We said from minute one we were going to be in the game; we came in at half time disappointed to be 2-0 down. We knew we had more in the tank; we deserved a point on the day,” he said.
“Chepstow is a tough place to go, and we were excellent on the day.”
Despite the result, questions remain over whether Croesyceiliog need to strengthen defensively as they look to maintain their challenge.
However, Kinsella made it clear that his attacking philosophy is unlikely to change.
“I’m more of an attacking coach; I want my team to score rather than go into defence mode,” he explained.
“Sometimes that works out for us, sometimes it doesn’t. We’re not a professional outfit, we’re not getting training done three to four times a week, and we’re always going to make mistakes at our level.”
Manager praises squad attitude as consistency becomes priority
While Kinsella is encouraged by his team’s recent form, he believes consistency will ultimately determine how far Croesyceiliog can go this season.
The manager also highlighted the strength of the wider club, with both the first team and reserves in positive positions.
“We just want to be better than last season, to be honest. We’re in a good place as a squad; our first and reserve teams are in good places. We just need to be consistent in this league,” he said.
He added: “Not one team will turn up every week of the season, and we’re no different to that; we’re going to struggle at some times, and it’s just about being in the right mindset from the start.”
Kinsella was also keen to praise the commitment shown by his players, suggesting their attitude has been one of the biggest positives of the campaign so far.
“The boys are great, their attitude has been top tier, there’s probably a bit more that we can get out of them, but that’s me being greedy,” he said.
“I can’t praise my players highly enough; they’re all standing up for each other, fighting for the badge, and it’s a really good group to be around.”
The manager believes there is still room for improvement, particularly when it comes to delivering consistent performances throughout the season.
He also pointed to the condition of the club’s pitch as a potential factor, explaining that wet weather can make it difficult for his side to produce their best football.
“Just to be a bit more consistent, we’ve done well in the last few games, and that is weather-dependent because our pitch doesn’t hold up well in wet weather,” he said.
Croesyceiliog believe they can be among teams challenging for title
Despite recognising the difficulties of competing in a demanding division, Kinsella believes Croesyceiliog have every reason to be confident about their prospects.
The manager initially identified Goytre and Chepstow as potential title contenders but insists there is no reason why his own side cannot be part of the conversation.
“I feel we can be one of the teams to beat this season. It’s anyone’s division; we said from the start it would be Goytre or Chepstow to win the league, and that’s no disrespect to anyone else in the league,” he said.
Kinsella was also keen to stress that the league campaign is far from decided, with plenty of football still to be played.
“No one wins anything in October/November time; anyone could win it, and we’re one of those teams in the division,” he added.
“Rome wasn’t built in a day, and we’re not going to win every game and go straight to the Cymru South.”
