Robins on track for survival

13/01/2011 @ 02:26

Newtown are still on track to achieve their target of Welsh Premier League survival manager Andy Cale claimed today.

Speaking exclusively to MyNewtown Cale said he remained confident that the Robins would achieve their target position of 10^th in the 12 team league.

“I am disappointed with recent results and the fact that we have dropped to bottom place but our target remains achievable. Staying in the league whilst rebuilding both on and off the field has always been the aim.”

Cale’s task is made no easier by the fact that Newtown now face four of the sides pressing for a top six finish in their run in to the league splitting in February.

League leaders Bangor City are at Latham Park on Saturday with Airbus, The New Saints and Llanelli all to come.

“It’s nice to be back at home, having played all our away matches,” said Cale. “We still have 14 games to go to ensure survival and while I accept it is a real challenge, when you consider the budgets available to other sides, it is a challenge we are relishing and one that we can achieve.

“Staying in the league will give the club breathing space to regroup and rebuild after 12 months that I am sure we would all like to put behind us,” he added.

And Cale hopes to complete the signing of Airbus midfielder Matthew Cooke in time for his debut against Bangor on Saturday. Cooke will move to Newtown as part of the arrangement that allowed Gavin Cadwallader to go the other way this week.

“Gavin was a great servant to Newtown Football Club but we could not guarantee him a starting place every week and wish him well at Airbus.

“Matthew will train with us tonight and hopefully agree terms in time to be available for Saturday and I would like to bring in a couple more experienced players before the transfer window closes.”

The manager was full of praise for the performances of new boys Jamie Price, Tom Rowlands and Robbie Millington at Port Talbot. “They are all young and keen to impress and should grow as part of the squad we are building for the future.”

Cale also confirmed that he has released front runner Chris Hartland, whose inconsistent form has restricted his starting appearances.

“Saturday will be a real challenge,” he said. “It’s top v bottom and Bangor are flying but in football you just never know.”

Newtown are currently three points behind both Bala and Haverfordwest but have a game in hand.