Fakenham start Norfolk Alliance Premier Division title defence with trip to Diss

David Coyle wants his players to build on their success of last season when Fakenham start the defence of their Norfolk Alliance Premier Division title with a trip to Diss tomorrow.

The club clinched 2018 glory with a record-breaking 12 successive wins.

But the Fakenham skipper knows that replicating their momentous form of last season will be difficult.

Coyle said: “As a club we’re trying to build on the success of last year, when we produced a miraculous run to get us the premier division title.

“Twelve straight wins was phenomenal and it’s going to take something equally phenomenal this year.

“Other clubs like Downham and Garboldisham have strengthened and the normal contenders like Cromer and Brooke are likely to be there or thereabouts.

“Teams like Diss and Stow have the capability to beat anyone and if their new overseas players hit the ground running, so it's a tough task holding on to our title."

Rather than recruit an overseas star, Fakenham will continue to reply on their home-grown talent.

“We have not recruited an overseas or any additional first team players, but there is always a chance for those with the right commitment, attitude and performances from the second team to have an impact in the way Harry Bammant and Harrison Futter did last year,” admitted Coyle.

“Availability last year was a fundamental feature and this year will be far more testing.

“John Ewart (teaching commitments), Ash Layer (work) will be available less than last season, while Yin Lo has relocated to London and Keegan Monohan Fairlie misses the first two games, so availability is already stretched more than last year.

“This will put a strain on us, but we’re hoping to be competitive and challenging and similar to last year will require some exceptional performances and need to win some close games to be successful.”