9:12am Monday 6th July 2009
By Ky Capel
RETURNING Matt Groves has praised Dorchester Town’s pre-season regime and revealed it feels like he has “never been away”.
The Magpies have enjoyed three training sessions to date having reporting back for duty last Tuesday evening.
And striker Groves, who is back at the Jewson Stadium following a two-year absence, has been impressed with the programme so far.
He said: “We’ve had three good sessions with the latest one on Saturday being the hardest. We’ve stepped things up each time and although it’s been hard, it’s been enjoyable.
“The training has been mixed up between running, some ball work and some strength work, and I believe we’ve got a different schedule planned for this week.
“It’s good to vary things as before I’ve been used to training in one place and repeating things too often so I think the boys are happy that we’ve been mixing it up.
“Everyone’s working hard and it won’t be long until the first friendly comes around.”
Speaking about his return to familiar surroundings, the man who has made 393 appearances in county town colours said: “Everyone’s made me feel welcome at training so it’s been a happy comeback so far. I’ve been travelling with Mark Jermyn like I used to and to be honest, as soon as I walked back into the club it felt like I’d never been away.
“I feel much more relaxed and comfortable here and hopefully that will show in my performances.”
Dorchester’s first friendly is at home to Eastbourne Borough on Saturday, July 18 with their opening fixture of the new Blue Square South season – at home to St Albans City – less than five weeks away.
Groves added: “I’ve had a quick look at the fixtures, although not in too much depth, and hopefully we can get off to a winning start at home to bring back more of the fans.
“It’s important that we pick something up in the first game because after that the two promoted sides are going to be strong. Dover won their league with ease while I’ve been told that Staines are a good footballing side.
“I’m looking forward to the start of the season and I’m sure it’ll fly by. Hopefully we’ll have a good pre-season and everyone will stay injury free.”
* Reigning champions Portland United will open their Dorset Premier League campaign with a home clash against Blandford United on Saturday, August 15.
Chickerell United also begin at home when they entertain Parley Sports while newly-formed Weymouth Reserves travel to face Hamworthy United Reserves.
Bridport Reserves are also on the road when they take on Swanage Town & Herston.
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