Spalding United Reserves chief Kev Nottingham is aiming for back-to-back promotions.
Following last season’s promotion to ChromaSport Peterborough League Division One, the Tulips’ second string kick off their campaign with a Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field clash against Oundle Town on Saturday (2pm).
Boss Nottingham knows the step-up will demand more from his squad, who narrowly missed out on the Division Two title by a single point last season.
But he’s quietly confident of securing promotion to the PDFL’s top tier.
He said: “We’ve strengthened our squad and our tough pre-season will stand us in good stead for this season.
“Division One is a step closer to our aim of getting into the Premier Division, which we know won’t be easy as there are a lot of good sides all wanting the same thing.
“But I feel we are up to the task.’’
Spalding endured a mixed pre-season in terms of results, winning three of their five matches.
But despite the two defeats, both against Premier Division opposition in Crowland Town and Ketton, Nottingham has seen plenty to suggest his side will be ready for their season opener.
Nottingham added: “The spirit within the group is strong and the work ethic and quality we have this season is a step above last season which we knew it needed to be.”
‘‘We’re a couple of additions away from having a very, very strong squad that will cause upsets this year.
“We’ll keep working hard and see where it takes us.
“The club is moving in the right direction now and it can only be a positive step for us.
“We’re very much looking forward to getting started.’’
Spalding will play their first four matches at home at the Sir Halley.
With free entry and refreshments available from the bar, supporters are welcome to get behind the team in their bid for promotion.
After Saturday, their next home game is against Stamford Lions on Wednesday night (7.30pm).
Baston (August 15) and Langtoft (August 19) follow.
