Ahead of his side’s final home game of the season against Kendal Town, Spartans manager Tom Wade revealed that he wants to give the Croft Park faithful a fitting send off to the summer as a reward for their loyalty and commitment throughout the season. It’s been a difficult year at the club following the relegation from the Blue Square North last season but there have been signs of improvement with Spartans winning three of their last four home games and recording their biggest away win of the season on Saturday winning 4-1 at bottom of the league Eastwood Town.
He said “It has been a tough two years for the club both on and off the field. I understand the frustration of the supporters and players. When I came in as manager you could tell the players were lacking confidence but I feel we have turned a bit of a corner. We are no way near where we should be but the signs are good for next season. Kendal are fighting for the right to stay in the league but we have to match they endeavour and try to put on a show for our loyal supporters because they have really stuck with us throughout what has definitely been a testing year”
Since taking over from Paddy Atkinson in February Wade has won exactly half of his twelve games in charge and has lost only one of his four home fixtures, that coming with an injury time defeat against current league leaders North Ferriby United. Possibly small mercies given the up and down nature of the season at Spartans but Wade pointed out that there are plenty more positives than meets the eye as he looks to assemble as squad for the new season that can push Spartans into play off contention.
He commented “Obviously we are focusing on finishing this season strongly but I think we can say the playing side is looking good for next season. We are looking to try to keep this squad together and obviously add a couple of quality players but it has all to be done within the budget. We need to add to the squad but there must be quality .We have a number of players who would like to come to the club and we are working hard to get them here. We have existing players who have benefitted from a season in the league and will come back better prepared to play at this level.”