Log In

Reset Password

Thompson: Title race is far from over

Village coach Kenny Thompson

Kenny Thompson has warned his North Village side that the Premier Division title race is far from over despite sitting five points clear at the summit with only four games remaining.

Village came from a goal behind to clinch what could prove a pivotal 2-1 victory over Dandy Town on Wednesday, to not only edge further ahead of closest rivals Robin Hood, but also extend their cushion over third-place PHC Zebras and fourth-place Town to nine points.

While acknowledging the magnitude of the result, which puts them firmly in pole position to be crowned champions for the first time since the 2010-11 season, Thompson is keen for his team to guard against complacency before facing Somerset Trojans on Sunday.

“It was a huge game for both teams and it was satisfying to see the spirit and mental strength of the team to come back from a goal down at half-time, said Thompson, whose side’s remaining games after Trojans include Somerset Eagles, Southampton Rangers and PHC.

“It could prove a very important three points and I’m delighted that we managed to get the win.

“It is definitely a healthy lead to be five points clear with four games to go, but there is still a lot of work to be done.

“We have some breathing room, but by no means can we get complacent. We are in a great position, but it is far from over. The message has been the same all season. As a squad, we take it game by game and prepare in exactly the same way, no matter who we play.

“We’re always focused on the immediate challenge and everyone knows they have to remain focused to achieve what we want.”

Despite refusing to take anything for granted, the Village coach is allowing himself to take some joy from the club’s impressive turnaround, having finished last season one place above the relegation zone.

“We’re all enjoying the journey and the process,” he added. “We find ourselves in this position and so we have to now go for it. The group are strong and have a great collective camaraderie.

“If you had given us this opportunity to be in this position at this stage of the season, of course we all would have taken it. Every player and coach wants to be involved in important matches and be in this sort of position challenging for something.

“Last season, we were watching other teams playing in the important matches at the other end of the table and so we have to enjoy this moment; it’s all the motivation we need.”

Although the table may suggest Trojans, one place and three points above the relegation zone, will not pose the same threat as Wednesday’s opposition, Thompson is well aware of the different challenge his side face.

“It is an extremely competitive league and at this stage you now have teams battling for the title and teams fighting to stay in the division, there are no easy games whatsoever,” he said.

“Teams fighting for their life at this stage of the season will have a drive and motivation to battle for everything, it creates a different challenge for us.

“However, we’ve prepared for different approaches and are ready to counter whatever they bring to the game.

“It will be a different challenge, but another chance for us to take a step in the right direction. We have to also remain true to play our own game and continue doing what has got us to this position.”