Thame United looking forward to new season – Contributed

WITH the new season kicking off on Tuesday, Augus 10, Thame United will be looking to get off to a good start as they push for promotion to the Hellenic Premier League. United open-up with a tricky looking home tie against a Farnborough Reserves side who will be something of an unknown quantity given their emergence from the Bisley Sports side of last season.

Kick off is 7:45pm at AFC Wallingford. On the following Saturday (15th August) the magic of the FA Cup takes over, as United face Bedford at home in the Extra Preliminary Qualifying Round, 3:00pm kick off.

United will be keen to continue the form that led to a strong finish in the league last season. The majority of the squad from last year have re-signed for the forthcoming season, with experience and competition added in key positions. Lee Orkney (goalkeeper) joins from local rivals Chinnor and has impressed in pre-season, whilst the return of striker John Mitchell after a three year absence has given the side a further boost. Mitchell, a player long associated with the Club both on and off the field, is a proven goal scorer at a higher level, having successfully led the front line for United in their Southern League days. In addition, Ed Barnett joins from Chinnor to provide added competition to the defence. Combined with the odd cameo performance from manager Mark West, United look well placed to be challenging for honours this season.

1st August 2009