Watson optimistic after green light

9:57am Friday 2nd May 2008

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An encouraging end to the season has reinvigorated Eccleshill United and given the management duo plenty to be positive about next season.

Boss Mick Watson and assistant Andy Patterson have been given the nod by the board to carry on in the hot seat following their first year in charge.

The Eagles chief said: "I'm delighted that the club has faith in us and has confirmed that we will continue for a second season. That has given us the chance to get things going regarding next campaign.

"It is important to get the go-ahead as soon as possible because if there is any uncertainty about the manager's position people get twitchy.

"If players are unsure there is always a possibility that they will listen to approaches from other clubs.

Watson has been encouraged by the way his younger players have bedded in and is hoping for more from them.

He added: "We want to keep our best players because we have a nice mix of youth and experience at the moment. Some of the young lads that have come through the ranks look to have potential.

"More is expected of them next term because they have made the breakthrough now so its time for them to take it to the next level. Playing alongside the likes of Ben Hardy, Chris Cookson, Gary Birchill and Stuart Waite will bring them on.

"I said a couple of weeks ago we were more than a match for the top teams in our division and results have proved that.

"What we have to do is take that level of performance into next season and find that all-important consistency."