Belief is back at Town says Townsend - The Evesham Observer

Belief is back at Town says Townsend

Evesham Editorial 8th Mar, 2017   0

A MUCH more positive outlook will be key to Pershore Town securing their Midland League Division One status, according to manager Quentin Townsend.

Townsend was left with mixed feelings after Town’s 3-3 draw at top six side Racing Club Warwick on Saturday – satisfaction they had extended their unbeaten run to four games with another upbeat team performance, but also frustration that after leading three times they could not come away with all three points.

Pershore remain third from bottom, two points ahead of Studley, but just three points separate 15th placed Chelmsley Town and the second from bottom Bees.

Townsend says Pershore’s rebuilt squad has replaced a negativity created by a dismal run when they suffered ten defeats in 11 league games – and that will remain vital in the final ten matches of the season.




“We were ahead three times at Racing Club so it was disappointing not to get the win but getting a point could be priceless come the end of the season,” said Townsend.

“To go and get a draw at a side in the top six shows we can compete. We got on the front foot straight away. Rather than being fearful because of our league position, we are taking the game to our opponents.


“Having a goalscorer like Jamie Clarke back in the side makes a huge difference and that was the third time in three games he has scored twice.

“If we had held on for another ten minutes and got the three points, we would have been 15th.”

Townsend admitted it had been a big decision to embark on a mid-season reshuffle, but the return of striker Clarke, plus the arrival of players such as Dean Waldron, Chris Whittaker, Richard Robinson and Chris Priest, has made a big impact.

“The dressing room is a different place, there’s good banter before and after the game and togetherness is vital,” said the Town manager.

“We had a clear-out in mid-season which was probably the wrong time but it had to be done.

“There was a negative element. I’m not pinning any blame at anybody’s doorstep but there were players who were here then just to pick up their expenses.

“Now there’s a positive spirit around the place. Even when we concede a goal, there’s a belief we can bounce back. It breeds confidence.

“As long as we keep doing the fundamentals I think we will be fine.”

Three of Pershore’s next four fixtures are at the King George V Stadium, starting with Saturday’s clash with Uttoxeter Town.

Pershore conceded two late goals in losing 2-1 at the Staffordshire side last month and will be determined to set the record straight.

Townsend, though, will be without top scorer Clarke, who is away with the Team GB Deaflympic squad, while left back Whittaker faces a fitness test after being ruled out last weekend.

After Uttoxeter, Pershore host Hinckley next Saturday and then after a midweek trip to basement side Southam United they entertain Leicester Road.

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