THE team spirit on show among Tividale’s new-look squad is delighting manager Ross Thorpe.

Thorpe and fellow joint-boss Phil Male have faced a summer rebuilding job after all of last season’s team followed former manager Ian Long to Alvechurch.

However, after a host of new arrivals at The Beeches, including the addition of defender Jesse Race last week, Thorpe couldn’t be happier with how quickly the players have gelled.

He said: “It’s pleasing to see how well the players have done so far. There is already a really good team spirit in the dressing room.

“The players have been a credit to themselves and it’s that group dynamic that is the most pleasing thing about our progress so far.

“Anyone could bring a group of players together but it is that team spirit that’s hard to find.

“We still have a small squad so are not rotating players as much during our pre-season games. It means we have been able to push minutes into their legs and, in turn, they are getting used to playing together and building up a good understanding.

“The place felt like it had a hole ripped out of it when we first arrived due to the fact so many had left, but I think we have put our own stamp on it now.

“Pre-season doesn’t count for much once the season starts, so it’s our goal to try and carry it forwards. We’ve not cracked it yet by any means, but I think we are in a much stronger position than we could have been.”

Tivi continued their pleasing pre-season with back-to-back victories.

A 4-1 win at Willenhall last Wednesday was followed by a 2-0 success at Bilston Town on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Race’s addition has boosted Dale’s defensive ranks.

“I’m thrilled we managed to get him,” added Thorpe.

“He is an out-and-out defender. There is nothing pretty about his game and he will put his body on the line for the team.

“He is a player I know well from my time at Alvechurch and I think he has all the attributes to be a big player at our level.”

Tivi were due to continue their preparations for the new campaign with a friendly at Gornal Athletic tonight before heading to Halesowen Town this Saturday.

“Hopefully, a lot of fans will turn out for the game with Halesowen,” added Thorpe.

“It would give the players a taste of what it is like to play in front of a slightly bigger crowd than what they are used to.

“It will be another experience that will help us progress again. It will be a good challenge for us before we start the season and one I’m looking forward to.

“The win at Willenhall last week was pleasing because of how the players reacted in the second half. We sat them down and told them that we wanted more from them and that was exactly what we got.”