MALMESBURY Victoria manager Kevin Bridgeman hailed his current crop of players as “the best he has worked with” after their strong start to the new season continued with progression to the FA Vase first round proper at the weekend.

The Vics have picked up 10 points from a possible 12 in Hellenic League Division One West, and on Saturday triumphed 3-1 at home to Virginia Water in the second qualifying round of the Vase.

Shane Bumphrey struck twice before seeing red for a second bookable offence, with Sam Parker also on target to set up a trip to Roman Glass St George in the next round on Saturday, October 13.

Malmesbury’s only blemish so far this term has been a 6-0 loss at Cirencester Town Development in the Hellenic League Subsidiary Cup, but otherwise everything is rosy for Bridgeman.

“I am absolutely delighted with the way we have started this season. Unbeaten in the league and through to the first round proper of the FA Vase is an ideal start,” said Bridgeman.

“I was, however, disappointed with the cup loss to Cirencester. Despite making eight changes from the previous league game, the players that we bought in just didn’t do themselves justice and we simply weren’t good enough anywhere across the park.

“I firmly believe the group of players we have this season is the strongest I have ever worked with.

“Having Sam Parker and Andy Baker come back from serious injures is like two new singings.

“We have carefully targeted the incoming players to improve the squad, and the team spirit and belief amongst the group is second to none at the moment.

“The players that have been on the fringes have had an absolutely superb attitude and I haven’t heard one moan or groan about anyone being on the bench.

“I have also had a reshuffle of the backroom staff and the three lads helping me now are all Malmesbury based, and I think this has worked wonders for the players who are almost all based in the town or within a few miles.

“It gives such an excellent buzz and warmth when we win and the relationship between the players and coaching staff is the best I have ever seen in my time at the club.”

Malmesbury face a Hellenic League Subsidiary Cup match away at Pewsey Vale on Tuesday night.

Royal Wootton Bassett Town’s own FA Vase ambitions came to an end following a 4-0 loss at home to Bashley at the weekend.

Sam Collier’s side return to action in Hellenic League Premier Division on Tuesday night and are at home to Lydney Town.

In Division One West, Pewsey Vale drew 3-3 at Kidlington Development last Saturday.

Toolstation League First Division side Corsham Town are also out of the Vase after a 2-1 extra-time defeat away at Fareham Town.

Corsham’s divisional rivals Calne Town were in league action and claimed a 2-0 win away at Keynsham Town, with Dan Sibley and Rory Worthington getting the goals.