One game at a time for new boss Highmore (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

One game at a time for new boss Highmore

KELVIN Highmore's first task as Melksham Town manager is to mastermind a home victory over Bristol Manor Farm on Saturday.

Highmore moved from Calne Town at the end of last season and has set about signing 12 players to create a team he feels can lead Melksham to mid-table security.

His new team faces a stern test for their first competitive game on Saturday.

"It is a really tough start. Manor Farm had a change of manager towards the end of last season and have rebuilt over the summer," said Highmore.

"From what I can gather from my Bristol contacts he has put together a tidy team that should do well."

Melksham's tough start is compounded with an away derby match against Corsham Town on Tuesday.

Highmore admitted he would have preferred a few more games under his belt before the first of six derby matches this season.

"Corsham are an established side now and they have retained most of their team from last season whereas we have had a new team form," said the manager.

"It will be a really big game but none of my boys will be allowed to think about it until Saturday is over."

The Conigre side warmed up for the start of the season with a 2-1 home win over a weakened Trowbridge Town side.

Melksham went a goal up through a thunderous 20-yard volley from Josh Brigham before Trowbridge equalised.

However, new boy Simon Price scored the winning goal in the second half to make it three goals from two pre-season fixtures for the striker.

"I think we switched off mentally when it was clear Trowbridge had not brought their first team," said Highmore.

"But we will learn from that and we still beat the opposition that was put in front of us."