Buoyant Holbeach United co-boss Graham Drury has warned the rest of the UCL Premier Division that his table-topping side haven’t hit full throttle yet.
The former Boston United, Stamford and Corby Town chief was speaking ahead of Saturday’s Carter’s Park clash with pointless Long Buckby (3pm).
Although the new season is only a few weeks old, there are already nine points between the two teams and Holbeach’s goal difference is 18 better off.
Drury, who has steered the Tigers to wins in all four of their competitive games so far this term, is getting carried away.
“We’ve started really well,” said the joint Holbeach chief. “No matter what level you’re playing at, it’s always a great feeling to win.
“We’ve beaten some good sides too, none more so than Deeping.
“The most pleasing thing has been how adaptable the players have been. The likes of Danny Spencer, Jake Gibson and Gary King have been playing in multiple positions – and doing well.
“We’d like to be a bit more solid defensively, but that’ll come in time.
“The scary thing is, I don’t think we’re playing at our best yet. Give it six or seven more weeks and I’m sure we’ll be there.”
Having managed at a higher level with his last three teams, Drury has found the UCL a different challenge since his arrival at Carter’s Park.
He was surprised to find Desborough Town happy to only lose 2-1 to his side the weekend before last and admits it has been a bit of a culture shock.
He told The Voice that the first goal is key on Saturday – and expects Long Buckby to deploy defensive tactics akin to those of Ar Tarn.
He added: “They’ve had a tough start. I imagine they’ll try and frustrate us a little and be defensive.
“That’s up to them, I can’t blame them for trying to get something.
“If we can get an early goal it’ll make our life a lot easier.”
Drury’s partner in crime, John Chand, is also expecting his charges to have to break Long Buckby down – and warned his side that they’ll have to put up with spoiling tactics a lot this season.
He said: “It’s impossible to go through a UCL season and not drop points – it just doesn’t happen.
“We need to be aware that teams view us as one of the top sides and will set up accordingly against us.
“Long Buckby have had a tough start, but they got a good 1-1 draw in the FA Cup on Saturday.
“We’ll not be taking the result for granted.
“But if we can make it four wins out of four in the league it’ll set us up nicely for the FA Cup the following week.”
Holbeach have no new selection worries, with only Jack Smith (broken foot) currently sidelined.
Holbeach will host UCL rivals Boston Town in the FA Cup on Saturday week after they won their replay against Walsham Le WIllows 3-1 on Wednesday night.
