How would you rate YM's season so far?

I'd agree with the manager on this one. Season is shaping up ok in terms of the cup semi and a decent league position though we are still a step behind Cookham and Highmoor. It’s a step up that will probably be made in the next 2 years with the inclusion of new players and such. Another cup final appearance coupled with a strong league finish would be another great season though. YM have a history of finishing strongly and that will be something the other sides are looking out for. I believe we need to really put pressure on the top 2 or 3 teams and that is done by not dropping silly points in the games against lower opposition.

How has your season gone from a personal perspective?

Prob the worst I have had for about 4 or 5 years. A non scoring start coupled with illness and injury has meant it has been very stop start. I have sort of resigned myself to my season being split in to 2 sections. Up to Christmas I have hopefully got rid of all the negative parts and am now looking forward to getting back in to it in the new year and driving my team forward, with the occasional bit of defending in there as well! Competition is fierce at YM and its not going to be easy to get back in. I have massive confidence in my ability though and know I can offer the team something a bit different in terms of dictating games especially being composed on the ball. The manager will have some tough decisions to make in the 2nd half of the season - something I know he relishes!

Which YM players have impressed you this season?

Scott Mortimer's form have been outstanding this season and he seems to have shored up his game and cut out the simple mistakes - something which now makes him one of the leading keepers in the division. Aidey Kearsey has added a new dimension to the YM midfield - tough tackling, non compromising holding player that gives other players around him the freedom to express themselves. Drew Tipper has also upped his game and is racking up the goals - his general touch and hold up play is awesome and has been quite rightly rewarded with a rep team place. I'd also pick out Adam Cassidy who I rate as one of the top centre half's in the league. Composure on the ball at the back is not easy at all and he seem to have it in abundance. It’s the difference between a long ball team and a team building attacks by passing the ball well.

What has been the highlight of the season so far?

Defiantly the cup QF against Woodcote. A top class display that dispatched a very good side quite comfortably in the end and ensured YM's chances of retaining the BTC are still firmly alive!

Which team has impressed you most so far?

I was very impressed with Cookham and very surprised that they aren't at the top of the pile. They appeared to have had a sluggish start with a few draws but are still unbeaten and will surely end the season challenging for honours. We did not play well in the cup tie over there after a disastrous preparation but even so there were a level above us that day, which also had something to do with us beating them twice at their place last season. A touch of retribution shall we say! However we know and they know the league games will be a different story and we will battle and scrap all the way for valuable senior division points. Highmoor also have a strong side though I believe are beatable with the correct game plan and personnel. I have not seen Westwood in action yet this season, though have heard they have upped their game this season with a number of new signings. Looking forward to those battles!  

How do you think YM will fare in the 2nd half of the season?

The cup semi final is massive for us and will keep everyone scrapping for places when an early exit and a couple of January losses could have seen the season peter out. Everyone now knows what its like to play at the Mad Stad and its certainly an experience I don’t want to miss so will be doing all I can to get us there again. We def aren't out the league race as it stands though I believe we are just that step behind and would need to take our A-game to the big guns in order to challenge. I firmly believe that cup win and 3rd place would put us in great stead to really give it a challenge next season.

Who do you think will win the Senior Divison?

As it stands its looking like Highmoor will be tough to beat though I believe Cookham will step up the gears in 2nd half of the season and really push them all the way. If I was a betting man, which I am, I'd also have a look at Westwood as outsiders to cause a shock - they have the fire power now with Baynham signed - I guess it depends on their consistency. Of course you would get good odds on YM and it would be a great bet - though I believe we are just those 2 big performances short as it stands.

What about the Premiership?

Man Utd all the way. Arsenal are playing very well but will have their blip - well, are having it as we speak, and face tough games over the xmas period. Utd know exactly what is needed and have the better quality of player - especially when it comes to strength of squad.

Do you have any Xmas message for the legion of YM fans?

I'd say the best is yet to come from YM in the 2nd half of the season. Gone are the days of division 1 football and trips to muddy pitches in the lower leagues. YM fans can now enjoy the lavish surroundings at Scours Lane for home games and of course look forward to away trips such as Cotswold Rec, Mortimer caravan park and no season is complete without the 4 mile walk over to the BCS pitch. Bring on the MAD STAD!!

Sidders