By Andrew Tidswell
Elite Sports Academy MD and Holbeach Utd player
It’s fair to say that Holbeach United FC are going through a tough period right now.
Having promised so much throughout the season – and at one stage being on for an FA Vase, UCL Premier Division title and UCL Knockout Cup treble – the club has now had to beg, steal and borrow players from other teams just to fulfill fixtures.
When I moved to Holbeach, I was under no illusions that tough times were coming. I was aware of what was happening, but I told (then boss) John Chand I would come on board.
The extent of the problems have been clear to see, because in the three fixtures I have played there has been off-field factors having a bearing on what happens on the pitch.
For example, our away game at Kempston Rovers saw us only have six players at 2.57pm and an old Kempston kit to play in, which would do favours to lost property at a school.
I could go on to say that we had no manager present at Desborough – and I know John Chand has held his hands up. But at any level of football you need your management there. These are just small indications of what’s been happening.
So there are some problems to tackle – and with the news that John Chand has stepped down because of his workload and the feeling he can’t commit fully coming straight after the 1-0 loss to Potton United at the weekend it can surely only go one way now: up.
Darren Jarvis and Tom Roberts will be taking charge – and I back them to steady the ship, so to say, and then really push on for next season.
Speaking to both after Saturday, the main objective is to get numbers in terms of players into the football club. You can’t have six or seven new players every game.
What I will say is that Holbeach United is still a fantastic football club, with some top people behind the scenes.
The fans have always been great and supportive and been with Holbeach at their highs and you can be very sure they will still be there at even the lowest points, because that’s what kind of people they are.
The transitional period could still be a little rocky but changes of fortune are coming.
Come on you Tigers!
