Wings must gel fast ahead of tough opener
09:31, 08 August 2008
Bath v Welling
Welling manager Andy Ford unveils his new-look side for the first time at Bath in Blue Square South on Saturday.
The Wings boss is expected to field as many as seven debutants in his starting line-up, although Frankie Chappell is out through suspension.
The match presents an awkward start for the Wings but Ford is unfazed about the task ahead.
"Everyone says it's a tough game but you have to play everyone during the season at some point," said Ford. It can be quite an intimidating place to go with a big crowd behind them so it will be a test for us.
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"They've kept more players from last season than we have so they'll have an advantage in that they've played together and know each other better."
Welling have enjoyed a successful pre-season and Ford believes the manner in which his team have passed the ball bodes well for the coming campaign.
"I'm excited but you know me, I'm never one to get carried away and make predictions." said Ford. "I would like another month to work with the new signings so we can all settle in.
"We like to get on the ball going forward and if we can add a bit of steel in defence then that's the way you win more games than you lose."
Midfielder Lee Blackburn (hip) faces a late fitness test but forward Orlando Smith is ruled out with a knee injury.
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