FELIXSTOWE United manager Andy Clarke is looking for a top-five finish in the Senior Division of the Metaltec SIL.And he said this is a possibility after ridding the team of its 'Felixstowe mentality.

By Elvin King

FELIXSTOWE United manager Andy Clarke is looking for a top-five finish in the Senior Division of the Metaltec SIL.

And he said this is a possibility after ridding the team of its 'Felixstowe mentality.'

“There is no easy ride now for players,” said Clarke. “There is competition for places with a larger squad and players cannot go through games any more knowing that their places are secure.

“This has been part of football in the Felixstowe area for too long, but hopefully it has disappeared from us now.”

United came back from 3-0 and then 4-2 down to beat Capel Plough 5-4 last Saturday and Clarke said that would not have happened 12 months ago.

“We have a much fitter bunch of lads,” added Clarke. “This season we have a deal with Felixstowe Rugby Club and use their floodlights for training in Coronation Park on Wednesday nights.

“They all want to train and we are lasting the pace better than other sides.

“I said at the start of the season that a top-three place was possible. After an inconsistent start, I have now modified this to a top-five position.”

Former Felixstowe and Walton United striker Liam Hunn has been among the goals, along with fellow striker Zak Watson, while the return to football of former Boston professional Paul Hart has given United a big boost.

“I used to be with his dad Gussie at Felixstowe and Walton and it is pleasing to see him watching our games.”

Clarke, who is assisted by Rob Childs, arranged a friendly at Ridgeons League Cornard on Wednesday, with two potential newcomers going through their paces.

“We are in good shape,” added Clarke, whose team play at Kirton recreation ground and use the dock social club in Trimley for after-match refreshment.

“We expect a tough game tomorrow against a Coplestonians side we drew 0-0 with earlier this season. They proved very hard to break down.”

Coplestonians' goal output has been boosted by the recent signing of Glen Turner from Grundisburgh and the return from injury of Bruce Rolls.

Leaders Haughley are at home to Capel Plough with second-placed Grundisburgh entertaining a Ransomes Sports side now managed by Peter Gorham.