8:20am Monday 8th March 2010
By James Beal
Bridgwater Town are sharpening themselves for the business end of the season, after moving into the top four in the league and into the semi-finals of the cup last week.
A 2-0 away win over fellow Zamaretto Southern Division One side Frome Town in the Somerset Premier Cup was followed by a 5-2 thumping of bottom of the table Bracknell Town on Saturday.
Joint manager Craig Laird told the Mercury last week's games gave an opportunity to prime players for two crucial league matches this week.
He said: “It was two good results for us - and it was important for the club and supporters.
“Saturday's game allowed us to rest players and give a bit of game time to players who needed it.
“But we have got a really good squad this year. We are now pushing towards the top and are hopeful we can cement our place in the play-offs.”
Laird added he was hopeful of cup success, after being drawn against Toolstation Western Division One side Wells City in the semi-finals.
He also hit back at suggestions money could be the reason why Bridgwater capture top talents in the league.
After last weekend's games Clevedon Town manager Nick Tucker hinted that a more lucrative contract offer from Bridgwater could lure away player Ellis Wilmot from his club.
Laird said: “The club, the committee and the players work really hard here to bring Southern League football for the town.
“We have got the march on most of the other clubs because we have never had a big budget.
“The other clubs, who have had big budgets, are now trying to cope with what we have had for the last ten years.
“Bridgwater Town players are certainly not here for the money. They are here because they can play a great style of football in front of great supporters, on a great pitch!”
The side will certainly have to produce that great style - in tonight's (Tuesday's) tough fixture away to fellow play-off hopefuls Cirencester.
Laird added: “We need to get at least a point away from home and if we get all three that would be even better. But it will be a tough, physical match.”
Bridgwater then face top side Windsor and Eton at home on Saturday.
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