by John Mead.
A short but intense Pre Season is just around the corner and Wood Boss Ian Allinson has admitted, “ I am feeling good about our position going into the League this season.”
Wood kick off their season later than most sides with the visit of Mark Warburton’s Championship newcomers Brentford on Thursday July 17th. This match will involve their full First team squad, as will the visit of Arsenal two days later.
Arsene Wenger will use the fixture as a warm up to his sides USA tour matches, at the same time officially opening our impressive new West Stand. The coveted F A Cup will also be paraded at Meadow Park for all to see on the day.
Allinson then has just three days to get his players up again for the visit of Division Two newcomers Cambridge United, making it three outings against full time professional sides in six days to test his squad. “It is my job to make sure they are fit and organised. To ensure that we are meeting up four times a week and will hold an in house game this Saturday.”
The pre season is somewhat shorter this year, a change that pleases the Wood Boss. “ Last season we were forced to play some of the squad in six or seven games before the season had started and it took its toll. It is a prestigious pre season here at Boreham Wood when you see the quality of opposition that we attract. That does take its toll on the players who have to work extremely hard in these games.”
It is the professional approach to football by the Chairman and the excellent facilities at Meadow Park that keep the top teams coming back for a pre season workout and it seems to be rubbing off on the players too.
“We are looking at a few players at the moment who have chosen us over other clubs. They will all get match time to show me what they have. We had a great finish to the season and with a few additions to a settled squad I am confident we will be at the required level to challenge at the right end of the table.”
UPCOMING FRIENDLIES
Thursday July 17th Boreham Wood v Brentford kick off 7.30pm
Saturday July 19th Boreham Wood v Arsenal ( all ticket) kick off 3pm.
Tuesday July 22nd Boreham Wood v Cambridge United kick off 7.30pm.
Friday July 25th Boreham Wood v Reading XI kick off 7.30pm
Tuesday July 29th Enfield Town v Boreham Wood kick off 7.30pm
Friday 1st August Boreham Wood v Arsenal XI kick off 7.30
Tickets for the game against Arsenal on Saturday 19th can be purchased online by visiting www.bwfcboxoffice.co.uk, in person by visiting the club between 10am-5pm Monday to Friday or alternatively you can call the club on 0208953097 selecting option 1.
