Two games - two squads: Why things look rosy for Burgess Hill Town

Burgess Hill boss Jay Lovett says his team has made a ‘promising’ pre-season start after winning two high-scoring friendly matches.
BHTFC boss Jay Lovett / Picture: Chris NealBHTFC boss Jay Lovett / Picture: Chris Neal
BHTFC boss Jay Lovett / Picture: Chris Neal

The Hillians ran out 4-1 winners against Steyning Town on Saturday afternoon before seeing off Hassocks 3-2 on Tuesday evening, despite a second-half fight-back.

“It’s promising,” Lovett said. “I pretty much used two different squads with only a couple of boys crossing over. It’s been positive so far.”

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Lovett praised the impact of central defenders Josh Spinks and Nathan Cooper, who were both signed from Haywards Heath, and previously hailed as ‘massive signings’ by the manager.

He said: “They have been absolutely solid and added real quality to the side. A young lad, Max Blencowe, from Lancing, has been brilliant when he’s played. Reece Williams-Bowers has come in and shown his class higher up the pitch. So far, I’m really pleased with what we’ve added to the squad.

“It’s just getting more games together to make it gel properly before the FA Cup starts.”

Lovett admitted there were some signs of rustiness after a long lay off but said ‘everyone is so enthusiastic about being back’. He added: “It’s really exciting when we go to training and turn up to games. Everyone really wants to be there.”

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Up next for Burgess Hill is a tough test against Grays Athletic on Saturday before facing Sutton Common Rovers on Monday. Lovett said these games would be ‘vital’ as he continued to assess what he wanted his squad to look like this season.

“[Grays Athletic] will be a real good test for us. They’re the same level as us but in the northern league. They will be in title contention in their league so it will show where we’re at.

Lovett confirmed the departures of Tom Cadman, Will Robinson, Kevin Moreno-Gomez and Tolulope Jonah. But Barnet defender Martyn Box has permanently signed with Burgess Hill — his hometown club — after a loan spell last season.

Lovett said Jordi Ndozid, who was signed last season, will also be staying on despite a ‘fair bit of interest at the end of the season’.

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“People like Pat Harding and Max Miller staying on is massive for us,” he added.

“We’re getting a nicely balanced squad. It’s more settled. I’m not looking for many more major changes.

“If the right person comes along, I’ll be on the lookout. I’m pleased with what I’ve got at the moment. In the past four weeks, everything has moved forward very quickly and back on track providing there is no second spike and everyone stays healthy.”