DARREN Perrin admits that he is concerned about Melksham Town’s storming start to the season hitting a bump in the road but is nonetheless enjoying the ride whilst it lasts.

Despite kicking off with a disappointing defeat to United Services Portsmouth in the FA Cup, Perrin’s men have soared to the top of the Toolstation League Premier Division, most recently romping to an 8-0 win at Longwell Green Sports on Tuesday night.

However, whilst the finishing touches are put on their new Woolmore Farm ground, Melksham will continue to play away from home until October 15, causing Perrin to broach their storming start to the season with a helping of caution.

“I was really angry with the manner of our performance against United Services Portsmouth but since then, the players have been magnificent,” said the Melksham manager.

“We’ve started the season really well but it’s only five games, so we can’t say ‘we’re going to do this’ or ‘we’re going to do that’ – there are 33 games to go and 99 points to play for.

“I just wonder if all these away games are beginning to take their toll. The ground is pretty much ready to go but we don’t play there until October 15, so it’s going to be difficult to keep this going.

“We’ve had a good start but we’re not getting carried away.”

Melksham’s clash with Longwell Green was goalless after 30 minutes but the floodgates opened in almighty fashion, with Perrin’s side scoring three quick goals before the break and five afterwards.

Luke Ballinger, Gary Higdon and Ben Thomson all helped themselves to braces, whilst Dave Thompson and Shaun Benison also got themselves on the scoresheet.

Last weekend, Melksham claimed a fine 3-1 victory at Buckland Athletic thanks to hat-trick from in-form frontman Ballinger.

He put his side a goal to the good before the break before striking twice more to see off the Bucks, who finished a place higher than Perrin’s side last term.

On Saturday, Melksham make the trip to their nearest challengers Bristol Manor Farm.