MAGPIES’ boss Craig Laird insists he is eager to introduce a flowing passing game within his new squad over time but admits they may also have to mix it up in conditions to get results.

The new chief saw his side fall to a 1-0 defeat to Banbury United on Saturday, in a game played on a heavy Avenue surface, which cut up and made moving the ball around difficult throughout.

But Laird, who is known for setting up sides that pass the ball freely, is still keen to implement the values of moving the ball comfortably with his new project in the county town.

He said: “My teams always try and pass the ball and make the right pass at the right time – not just any pass.

“It’s recognising it and getting that knowledge into the players.

“We have to nurture that, grow it, and make the players comfortable playing it.

“There is a reason why we are doing it and it’s where we want to be, but it will take us a bit of time.”

Following the defeat to the Puritans, Laird was asked about the potential demons in the Avenue pitch, which could prevent his team from implementing the neat passing game he is looking to instil.

He said: “When it’s hammering down with rain, it’s foggy and there are almost landmines on the pitch, you have got to adjust your game accordingly.

“I think you have to try and mix it up but you still have your core values and principles which we want to stick to, which is a passing game.

“The principles still stay the same, especially in the final third.

“You should be able to move it and get better quality into the box.”

Commenting further on the Magpies’ home conditions, he added: “I have said to the board I want them to spend some money on the pitch and try and get a decent wicket for us, but Banbury proved you can do it.”

Dorchester Town Reserves take on Bournemouth Poppies Reserves at the Avenue in the Wyvern Shield tomorrow (7.45pm)