Maldon Town begin their Jewson League premier division season tomorrow and hopes are high at Park Drive.

The management team of Colin Wallington and Mick Potter have spent the summer putting together the strongest squad seen at the club for some years a squad that involves the three top scorers from the league last season.

Wallington said: "We are in with a shout this season. Sudbury are favourites, of course, but we have a chance."

Maldon completed their pre-season campaign on Tuesday night with a thumping 5-1 win over East Thurrock United.

Finding the net were Neil Docking (2), Dean Francis, Terry Warwick and Scott Witney.

Wallington added: "We looked good. It all seems to be coming together at the right time.

"Our one-touch football was a dream."

Neil Stanbridge, Shane Bailey, Lee Hunter and Neil Shade have joined from Clacton Town, Neil Docking comes in from Soham Town Rangers, Sam Banya was playing at AFC Sudbury last season and Nicky Smith was with Braintree Town.

However, due to the large influx, Wallington is going to have to let some players go to balance the books.

Saturday's visitors are Gorleston Town, who have a new manager in Alan Smith following the departure of former Scottish international Robert Fleck.

Wallington said: "It will be a good test for us, but I think we are ready."

Published Friday August 16, 2002

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