Following a scintillating festive period, where Bristol Manor Farm picked up seven points out of a possible nine, Manager Lee Lashenko expressed his delight with the team’s impressive performances, and is now gearing up for a crucial clash against Yate Town, touted as ‘The biggest non-professional side in Bristol.’
“The festive period has been excellent for us, but we’re certainly not getting carried away,” Lashenko began. “The league table is so congested right now, and we know that a few bad results could slump us back down a few places. That being said, picking up 7 points from 9 is a testament to the club’s staff and players’ hard work and determination. It’s a positive way to head into the second half of the season.”
The Farm are currently in sixth place in the Southern League Division One South, just four points behind 5th placed Bemerton Heath Harlequins in the final pay-off position, and the gaffer believes that the ‘feel good factor’ around the squad can help continue their impressive run of form as they face rivals Yate Town.
“Regardless of their current league position, Yate Town is a tough opponent,” Lashenko expressed. “It’s fair to say that Yate and Mangotsfield United are the two biggest non-professional sides in Bristol, but collectively we are working hard to change that. In the past few years we’ve shown what a good side we can be, coming close to promotion just two season ago. I also want to give full credit to Cribbs who have settled into the Southern League brilliantly. Their manager (Richard Luffman) is showing everyone how much ambition and determination can help you go a long way.
“The team is in good spirits, and we’re looking forward to the challenge on New Years Day at Lodge Road,” said Lashenko.
Manager Lashenko also took a moment to pay tribute to the club’s proud history and those who have contributed to its success. “In the current season, we added Liam Harding to our coaching staff to assist both myself and Grantley Dicks. Liam’s definitely hit the ground running and has made a positive impact. However, it’s important to look back and recognise the contributions of former players and coaches who have played a pivotal role in shaping the club to its current standing. People such as Ian Harvey, Steve Winter, Chris Bailes, Terry Bufferey, Steve Durrant, Stuart Tovey, and even Danny Greaves, who is doing a great job at Frome, have each played a massive part in getting us to where we are. We greatly appreciate their dedication and the hard work they have contributed to our success.
“We know that there will be challenges that lie ahead, but we’re fully determined to make our mark in the second half of the season.”
We would like to thank our supporters for their continued support over the positive festive period, and we look forward to seeing seeing the Farmy Army at Yate Town on Monday 1st January.