Debenham LC manager Guy Hayes reflects on his team's opening three Thurlow Nunn League First Division North games
‘A mixed bag’ – that is how manager Guy Hayes described Debenham LC’s start to the new Thurlow Nunn League First Division North campaign.
After losing on their own patch to Downham Town on the opening day and then winning a midweek derby at Diss Town, the Hornets followed those results up on Saturday with a 1-1 draw against newly-promoted Sheringham.
It means Debenham have picked up four points instead of the six that Hayes would have preferred, but he nevertheless believes his team have given themselves ‘something to build on’.
“It has been a a bit of a mixed bag so far. When the fixtures came out we knew it was going to be a tough opening month or so,” the boss said.
“We were disappointing against Downham but then played really well against Diss and deservedly won that game.
“I always expected the Sheringham game to be tricky and I think they will do well this year. A draw was probably a fair result.
“I would have preferred to be on six points right now but there are positives to take and four points have given us something to build on.”
Next up for Debenham is a tough-looking trip to early pacesetters Mulbarton Wanderers tomorrow (3pm), followed by an away match at Felixstowe & Walton United Reserves on Wednesday (7.45pm).
“We lost 4-0 at Mulbarton last season and to be honest it could have been anything,” added Hayes.
“They are favourites to win the league and to a degree there is no pressure on us, but we are also here to get results.
“We are going to need to be a bit cuter this year and show we have learned from last year’s game.”
And on the clash with Felixstowe’s second string, he said: “It is not always ideal playing reserve sides midweek because you never know who is going to play for them.
“When we played them last year they had three or four first team players in their side.
“But it is what it is – you have to beat what is put front of you ultimately and we will not have any complaints.”
