New boss aiming for top half

Jethro Warren, left, is about to embark on his first season as Westfield Football Club manager

The Westies will begin their 2014/15 Sussex County Football League Division Two campaign with a home game against Wick & Barnham United tomorrow (Saturday). Kick-off at The Parish Field is 3pm.

Warren said: “With the squad we’ve managed to assemble, I want to have a good push for the top seven or eight, but you don’t know who’s spent the money and who’s done what. We’re looking quite strong.”

David Pugh, Andy Hales, Danny Woodley, James Gatcum, Dave Seymour and Terry Payne have all returned to the club, while Lewis Parsons and Ross Markham have departed, and the availability of Ross Williams is unclear.

“My main aim was to keep as many as I could (from last season),” continued Warren. “Pre-season’s been alright. I’ve not done anything too tough with them. There’s been no long distance running; it’s all been short and sharp.

“I can’t wait to get started now. I’m a bit apprehensive as to how it’s going to go, but I’m sure we’ll be alright.”

Westfield lost 3-0 at home to Eastbourne Town, drew 2-2 with Hildenborough Athletic and lost 3-1 away to Hailsham Town, as well as beating their reserve team 1-0, in their pre-season friendlies.

Woodley is banned for tomorrow’s game, Gatcum is working, Hales is unavailable and Pugh is struggling a bit with a knee problem.

“I’m 99 percent sure of the starting XI,” said Warren, as he embarks on his first foray into senior football management.