Following the disappointment experienced in the previous season a decision was made to radically change the Team in order to bring a younger look to the side and to create a new desire to compete at the highest level.
This resulted in 10 new players joining the Club with 9 players seeking pastures new. Although there was an expectation to compete with the top teams in the Premier Division it was recognised that in view of the number of new faces the team would face difficulties in gelling quickly in the hope that they could compete for honours. The Team started the season winning the first game but this was followed by an unexpected loss at home in the second fixture. There then followed a run of 18 games unbeaten and during this time the Team won 14 and drew 4. During this time there were disappointing results in the Essex County Premier Cup and the EOFL League Cup when the Team were knocked out of both competitions by fellow EOFL Clubs.
April 2010 arrived with high expectations but unfortunately the last 6 league games resulted in difficulties in fielding regular players due to midweek fixtures and as a result the Team won 3, drew 1 and lost 2. This resulted in the Team losing the title by a mere 2 points ultimately finishing runners-up in the Premier Division. Although it was of little consolation the Team scored more goals and conceded fewer goals than any other team in the Premier Division.
The Management and players were bitterly disappointed with losing out at the end of the season but it was not for want of effort that the title slipped from their grasp. Once more it was another season of so near yet so far.
The Premier Division is made up of a number of very strong teams with very good players and the standard seems to improve year on year. However the Team must continue to have aspirations of playing good football in the hope that at the end of the season they can look back with some success.
It is with some sadness that I write this report as I am standing down as the Manager of the Team. I have enjoyed my time during the 5 seasons that I have held the position and I leave knowing that I have helped the Club get back to their history of winning ways after a few bleak seasons. I wish the Club and the new Management success for next season.
Finally I would like to give a special thank you to all of the players who contributed so much throughout the season and I wish them success in their future. I hope that they will continue to play attractive football in the way that is part of the culture of the Club.
Calling all young footie fans out there! We're giving away six annual subscriptions to KiCK! - the fun and interactive monthly football magazine for kids.
Become a Wembley legend with the FA Umbro Fives
The FA Umbro Fives is back, offering 5-a-side teams the chance to play at Wembley and become the official champions of England. Enter your team now for just £25!