EPPING FOOTBALL ROUNDUP

DEBDEN Sports got their Herts County Senior League division one season off to a slow start with a 3-1 defeat at Cuffley.

Missing seven key regulars, Sports were forced to field a makeshift side for the game and still put in a decent performance.

But it will much the same for Saturday's clash with title-hopefuls Chiperfield Corinthians, with several players still missing, and player-boss Graham Smith is hoping that they don’t lose too much ground so early in the season.

He said: “It was a disappointing start and frustrating to lose the opening game because I really think we are stronger than last season in terms of the squad.

“We knew the first couple of games we would be short but we need to get past this and we should be ok. It would nice to get that first win under our belt on Saturday.”

The season ahead looks a promising one for Debden with six new faces - two central defenders, a full back and three midfielders - coming in to bolster the squad over the summer.

Smith added: “They're all really good players who will provide that extra competition for places and things are looking really promising.

“Last year we were among the best teams and that was our first season. With these additions to the squad I definately feel we can push for promotion.”

Epping continued their preparations for the new season with a 2-2 friendly draw with Royston.

Boss Lee Ward was missing several players for the game, but was pleased with the way his squad is shaping up.

He said: “It was a really good game and a good performance. The squad is looking good for the season and we can't wait to get into full flow.”

Meanwhile, Ward is eager for local people to get involved with the club in a bid to raise its profile.

“Off the field work needs to be done,” he added.

“Hopefully we will be having an open day charity game to raise funds, but we're also looking for people to get involved in some capacity.

“We're looking for new committee members and sponsors to inject some cash into it. We want to push Epping up the ladder as much as we can.”

For more details call Lee Ward on 07534 249 049.