Tonbridge Angels manager Steve McKimm is keeping expectations in check ahead of the new season
Published: 00:01, 07 August 2015
Tonbridge boss Steve McKimm has called for a touch of realism ahead of the new Ryman League, Premier Division season.
McKimm’s side narrowly escaped relegation in his first season in charge and he’s strengthened his squad over the summer to avoid a repeat performance.
Angels should do better than 20th in 2015/16 but McKimm says supporters shouldn’t set their sights too high.
He said: “I’m expecting to finish higher than we did last year. I don’t want to put the club or the supporters through the same panic stations going into the last month of the season.
“People are talking about us winning the league or getting into the play-offs but we finished fifth-bottom last year. I’ve got my own target and the players know that but I’m not going to go public with it because you just end up with egg on your face.”
Centre-forward Nathan Elder and midfielder Tom Phipp are among Tonbridge’s summer signings, both having played for Ebbsfleet and Maidstone in recent years.
McKimm said: “I’m happy with the squad. I’ve kept the nucleus of what I had last year and brought five in, which I’m pleased with. The new lads have fitted in straight away and hopefully we can hit the ground running.
“Last year I didn’t have the quality I’ve brought in this year.”
Tonbridge’s first game on Saturday is away to Enfield Town, who finished fifth before being docked three points for fielding an ineligible player.
McKimm said: “They only missed out on the play-offs by default so it’s going to be a tough game. They’re a good side, pacy and they beat us 1-0 at their place last year."
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