Be brave blues

The Blues manager is eager for his players to put the disappointment of last season’s play-off behind them and go one better this time around.

Speaking to the Standard, Housham said: “We want to finish higher than fourth. We have to go one step further and try and win it.”

“Every team will be doing the same and eyeing promotion. We have to make sure we put ourselves in a strong position to challenge on the field.”

“Our confidence to be brave will come with games. It’s been a long time out for them, to come back and play football can feel quite strange.”

And he said the lengthy pre-season calender is key to getting the players in the best physical condition possible.

“They have been doing well and looking fit. For the last few weeks I have been pleased with the way they have applied themselves both in games and their individual fitness levels,” said Housham.

“The first week back was a lot of fitness work and then we started to get the balls out a bit more. Even with the ball you can do fitness work as we continue to get them ready for the new season.”

While the search for new signings is ongoing, Housham said he was pleased with Friday’s goalless draw with Blue Square Bet Premier side Mansfield Town on the Northolme.

“It was a very good game and we kept the ball well throughout the game. We created a few good chances and on another day would have put them away.”

“With the season only four weeks away we are near enough there, though they will have to put in a lot of hard work between now and the 18th August and our first game,” he added.

Gainsborough Trinity will be opening its doors to the community this Sunday on the Northolme in a Fun Day boasting a variety of football games and raffles.

There will be a penalty competition, cross bar challenge and a meet and greet with all your favourite players, as well as refreshments available.

It kicks off from 12 noon on Sunday 29th July at the ground and entry is free.