'Light at the end of the tunnel' as Worksop Town prepare for new season

The Tigers are now working towards a provisional September 19 start date for the new Northern Premier League South East Division season.

"It's positive news, really good news for us," said new boss Parry, who swapped the Pontefract Collieries dugout for Sandy Lane in April.

"Hopefully, now we can get back to normality and start looking forward to games and getting the season started.

"There's light at the end of the tunnel now so it's all positive and that's how we have to keep thinking. Soon the season will be up and running."

The FA's new guidelines also gave the green light for competitive training to begin for groups of up to 30, while friendly fixtures can kick off in August.

Parry has been impressed with how his swiftly-constructed squad have taken to training.

"They looked sharp, a lot of people used lockdown to get in shape and it's good from our front and I'm looking forward to working with the lads on a full (contact) basis.

"I think once we decided to join Worksop we always had in mind a side that would be capable of playing in front of the crowds Worksop get.

"We wanted to target the right people that we thought would have the right abilities and personalities and qualities to play for the club.

"We acted quickly and I'm looking forward to getting everyone gelling together and moving forward together."

Striking that right balance on the pitch is something Parry hopes will come easily as nine of his new-look side followed him from Pontefract.

"We worked with the previous players and they did well at this level before," he added.

"They're all young lads with potential that we've brought with us.

"They know how we work and what we expect so we would hope we're ahead of the game with preparation.

"Because they're used to each other they're fine and have mixed in well with the others. Everyone's started well and we're hoping it carries on. There's a good spirit and bond so far - long may it continue."

There to offer advice to to the Tigers' youngsters are a number of experienced campaigners such as keeper Seb Malkowski, striker Gavin Allott, ex-Chesterfield and Mansfield Town midfielder Jack Broadhead and James Baxendale, who has Football League experience with Walsall.

"We tried to get that balance," Parry added.

"The spine's good. The spine's very experienced and around the spine we wanted to have good young players with lots of potential who can add something to the team and learn as well.

"Seb's played for Poland, you've got Jake Picton who's experienced at this level, Gav Allott is sproven at higher levels and James Baxendale's played over 100 games for Walsall."

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