Darren Henderson admits getting off to a flying start will be crucial this season.
Hurlford United are hoping to build on last season's sixth-placed finish in the West of Scotland League Premiership – but the Blair Park boss knows how tough it will be as the fixtures start rolling in, especially with a tight league of 16 compared to last season’s 20.
With an opener at home against Kirkintilloch Rob Roy, Hendo is hoping to take advantage of last season’s impressive home form.
He told the Kilmarnock Standard: “The dynamic changes this year with 16 teams.
“Last season we were fortunate, we were one of only maybe six teams who were always pretty safe in terms of relegation.
“But I did feel for the other teams, especially the ones who did get relegated, it was a strange year.
“I am just glad it’s back to reality. You’re just looking at maybe two teams going down rather than seven or eight.
“Last season it wasn’t enjoyable for a lot of it, it was just constant pressure for everyone; coaches, players and fans. We need to stay in this league. We did well last year, we need to kick on now.
“You look at the 16 teams in the league it’s so competitive. It’s hard to pick what teams will go down, hopefully we can get off to a good start like last year which will take the pressure off.
“We are starting at home which is good as our home form was decent last year, so hopefully we start positively.”
Goalkeeper Chris Taylor has joined up with ‘Ford along with defender Craig Reid from Darvel, but Henderson is hoping to strengthen further and build on their West of Scotland Cup win.
He said: “Numbers are better than last year, we are still on the lookout, though, we always are, you’re never happy and you can always strengthen.
“The boys only had a couple of weeks off, it’s been difficult this year trying to find that balance. We brought a couple of new signings in who finished maybe four weeks before our guys so it’s difficult.
“But we are raring to go and the cup win last season will hopefully give us that wee spring to do well.”
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter here
