Cunnington ready for trip into the unknown (From Halesowen News)

Cunnington ready for trip into the unknown

in Sport

SHAUN Cunnington says the first 10 games are crucial as Halesowen Town take a trip into the unknown.

The Yeltz kick-off their first campaign in Northern League First Division South, since moving from the Southern League, with a home game against Mickleover Sports on Saturday (kick-off 3pm).

Boss Cunnington is hoping his new-look side can get off to a strong start in what promises to be a busy opening few weeks.

He said: “There are a lot of games coming up and the onus is on us to hit the ground running.

“We need to win our home games and then look to pick up what we can away from home.

“The first 10 games are going to be really important in terms of setting things up for the rest of the season.

“There have been a lot of changes in terms of players.

“Over pre-season it’s taken us some time to get the players we wanted and getting the side to gel.”

Striker John Griffin, midfielder Ben Steane and defender Scott Lycett are among the new arrivals.

Cunnington felt last Saturday’s 3-3 draw with rivals Stourbridge, which the Yeltz at one stage led 3-0, was the first time he had been able to field his first choice XI and he was pleased with the results.

He said: “We acquitted ourselves really well and showed a lot of potential.

“Stourbridge are a very good side who are consistently there or thereabouts in their league.

“It was pleasing to give a good account of ourselves. We made changes late in the game which we probably wouldn’t do in a competitive game.”

Cunnington added: “As a manager going into the season the aim is to get promoted — otherwise there is no point doing it.

“That is certainly the focus around the club and everybody has worked extremely hard in trying to achieve that.

“I’m quite happy with the squad going into the season. The onus is now on us to go and perform.”

Cunnington is hopeful the club will receive international clearance for defender Sam Brooks ahead of Saturday’s game.

The Yeltz next travel to Market Drayton Town on Tuesday night (kick-off 7.45pm).