Chris Tomkinson looks forward to Elton Vale clash

Central manager Chris Tomkinson looks ahead to the 2022/23 season and gives us his thoughts on the opening game of the season, as well as what to expect from central in Division One this year.

Tomkinson speaks to us about his time with the squad in preseason so far, and how it has been going, stating ‘preseason has been really good, great to get back to it, we’ve had really good numbers at each session meaning we’ve been able to play 11 v 11 games.’

‘It helps to see the different characters, but it’s safe to say that the new lads have fit into the atmosphere we have already as well as showing their ability on the pitch.’

He further mentions where the team are at currently in preseason, and how he wants to set his side up once the season begins stating, ‘there is always work to be done, but the lads have been brilliant so far during the good mix of games where we have been able to see the team.’

‘The lads have taken on board what we have asked them to do, to play a little different to how we did last year but trying not to lose our style fully because at times we were devastating going forward. The remaining four games will hopefully cement a few things and give the lads a good test too.’

‘We want to keep that aggressive high press that did us so well at the end of last season, and it’s the way Central have always played and it has been successful.’

‘But we know we must adapt, keep the ball better at certain times and not be as open out of possession. If we can get the balance at both ends of the pitch right, we will be very competitive this year.’

Speaking on what he hopes to achieve this season, Tomkinson added ‘my initial thoughts are positive so far, we have improved the squad from last season, which was tough to do, whilst keeping all the lads from last year so I'm hoping we can be very competitive in what will be a very tough league.’

‘The fact we have two cup competitions to compete in too will be great as we have had good tradition and history of doing well in the cups each year so that is something I would like to replicate this season.’

Further adding ‘I think like every team in the league promotion is the target, but I'm also not daft, I know it will be tough and each game will be hard fought. But I’m also extremely confident with the lads we have in the squad that they can achieve anything if they all adapt, work hard and have the character they did at the end of last season.’

Looking ahead to Elton Vale and the league campaign, he stated ‘you always want to get off to a good start for sure, but is it crucial? No, I don’t think so, particularly with our record in opening games where we have struggled to pick up three points.’

‘We will be looking to put that right this time around, but the season is long and drawn out. Picking up points to start with would be nice and a nice change in tradition for us.’

Speaking on what he expects from Elton Vale, he said ‘I expect a game that will be extremely hard fought, probably like the Avro game last season. Very tough, but it’s down to the team that takes their chances when they come, but more importantly who defends well.’

‘We are extremely excited, and it will be nice to see the likes of Elton Vale again who we’ve had some great encounters with in the past.’

‘They will be extremely organised like all the teams in this league, with quality also, but if we play like we know we can with lots of energy, making sure we take our chances and defend well we will have as good a chance as anyone. Kicking off at home will be nice too.’

Rounding off, Tomkinson spoke on how he expects his side to improve on from their promotion last season, stating ‘naturally we will improve, as the lads get older and as they become more accustomed to playing in men’s football they will improve as players which will improve us as a team.’

‘It may take us a month or two to get to that level that I want, but I have confidence in the lads that we can do so, which will see us being very competitive in Division One this year.’