FOOTBALL: COVENTRY United manager Terry Anderson has set promotion as his side’s aim ahead of the club’s Midland Football League Premier Division campaign, which kicks off this weekend.
United face Sutton Coldfield-based Boldmere St Michaels on Saturday before travelling to Loughborough University on Tuesday, August 15, and then Westfields on August 26.
Anderson, who first moved to Coventry four years ago, hopes his team can climb out of the 22-team division – though admits a tough season awaits.
Only the top team will gain promotion from the Midland League’s highest division, and with no playoff system in place Anderson is banking on his side bagging top spot.
Speaking to The Observer, the gaffer said: “We definitely want to be pushing for promotion this season. It will be tough as only one team goes up, so we have to win the league.
“The standard of football in this year’s Midland Premier League is high. It’s the most competitive it’s been in the past few years.
“I think supporters will see all teams pinching points off each other.
“We’re strong, play entertaining football, and have a few former Coventry City players in our side.”
A tough start to the Midland League Premier Division awaits Anderson’s men with three away trips before facing Worcester City at home on August Bank Holiday Monday.
Anderson said: “We face Boldmere St Michaels on Saturday, that will be another tough game. We encountered them last year, they’re a big and strong team. Particularly at home.
“Worcester will be another big game, they all are.
“They have a large fanbase and will be a tough team to crack despite them dropping down divisions. Hopefully we’ll see a big crowd on the day.”
A disappointing loss to Rugby Town on Saturday saw Coventry United make a quick exit from FA Cup.
Though the game ended in defeat, it did mark the start of a new era of football in the city centre.
Hundreds of supporters turned out to watch Saturday’s FA Cup game, which Town ended up winning 2-1.
“Saturday was a disappointment, especially after we had a good pre-season,” said Anderson.
“We should’ve won. We had chances but Rugby Town defended well and credit to them, winning with ten men isn’t easy.
“But from our point of view it was a big disappointment.
“The game had a great atmosphere about it. Being a local derby we had a few people come along.
“It’s great to play at the Butts Park Arena, it’s one of the best grounds in the league. To have football back in the city centre is what we wanted.
“Getting people back into the city to watch football is key, and we hope more people will come along.”
