Oldland media:How has pre season been?
SA: “it’s been a frustrating one to be honest I’ve never known one like it. With everyone gripped by World Cup fever, weather and holidays, it’s been hampered and disjointed but most sides are in the same boat. We had 9 pre season games pencilled in and only managed to play 4 of them due to cracked pitches or opponents not being able to raise a side.”

Oldland Media: How’s the squad looking?
SA: “We retained 90% of the squad from last season which was positive news and a platform to build on. For me it was massive to keep the spine of the side together and I’m delighted we done that. Most of our squad due to being a talented bunch had offers from higher league clubs and even our league. Some of the money I’ve heard clubs paying this summer is crazy and something we simply can’t or won’t compete with. We have lost some good players who have moved onto higher league clubs with only one lad going sideways, but the lads we have brought in are equally as good. Those that have moved on I wish them all the best. I’m excited by the young talent we have brought in as they will try new things but also not be afraid to get stuck in. We have some serious competition for our midfield places and at centre back.”

Oldland Media: what’s the aim for the O’s this season?
SA: “Everyone at the start of the season wants to be involved in the title chase or promotion as well as having a good cup run. I’m no different I want the same however realistically I want to compete for the FA Cup places and improve on our 7th place finish. I’ve set the lads a challenge as a group and individually.”

Oldland Media: what’s been happening at the club recently?
SA: “The committee and small army of volunteers have grafted all summer fighting the elements in order to prepare for the new season. We’ve had changes of management in our Reserves with Wes Frith coming in as manager. We have introduced a 3rd Team managed by Sam Jones to help bring the youth section closer and push the 16’s/18’s into adult football. I believe it’s an exciting time to be involved in the club no matter what level.”

Oldland Media: Who would you tip of consider favourites in the First Division?
SA: “For me I’d say the usual suspects of Keynsham who started well last night and always up in the top 4. Cheddar won’t be far away again and have the same consistent side. However I know a lot of sides have recruited well Such as Corsham Town and Calne Town having picked off players from Chippenham Park following the management change. Your will also have a dark horse who no one expected due to it being a very competitive and tough league to get out of.”

Oldland Media: Finally, is there anything else you would like to add?
SA:”Yes, get down to Oldland this year to sample our friendly club, enjoy a drink or two you never know you might like it! I love to see more of the youth section in and around club as we have sides from under 6s to under 18s so be brilliant to see them in their kits at the club and their parents enjoying what’s theirs as well. For the locals I’d love to increase our gates and get some more vocal support for the lads. We keep hearing the excuse of the boys aren’t Local but the majority of the side is based from the Bristol area. Finally, from me thank you to all our sponsors past and present for helping to keep us running”.