Promotion the target for Tenbury Town, says player Patton

Town finished third last season, just a point behind second place Fownhope Reserves.

The team is now managed by Bob Sumner after former boss Darren Worthington decided to step down.

Winger Patton said that he was disappointed when Worthington made his decision, but said that Sumner has settled in well and the team is aiming for promotion.

"Bob's come in at a time where we needed a manager and has gathered a similar squad with some new young players," said Patton.

"Darren had been with us for us for a few years and I was gutted when he decided to not manage anymore.

 But Bob has come in and got us off to a good start.

"Our goal for the season is automatic promotion, but winning the league is in our sights after falling short last season.

"Our friendlies have been going well, aside from a blip against The Bell where we lost from having a weakened side.

"We beat Teme Valley 8-0 and look in good shape for the new season."

Sumner's men are away away to Shobdon Reserves in the HFA Junior this Saturday.

Their first league game is against Sinkum on September 20.

Ben Spires and Tom Pitt have been added to the team, which Patton says have helped strengthen the side.

"Striker Mark Boucker has also returned from a knee injury and captain Kieran Fish has a big presence at centre-back since joining from Tenbury United," said Patton.

"Alex Bright also came from United and has been such an important player for us."

Patton said that Town go into the game against Shobdon Reserves as favourites.

"It is a game we are looking forward to because it is one of our more local games and, in previous encounters we have come out on top," said Patton.

"We will be going into the game to win it.

"I think our main competitors this season will be Weobley and Sinkum.

"They are both good footballing sides, with Sinkums being more physical.

"But there is no reason why we cannot go up this season."