The first of a regular report from our manager Steve Riley on how he sees things in the life of RCA.
Good afternoon Ladies and Gentlemen
Firstly I would like to start by welcoming our opponents and neighbours Ryhope CW to Sunderland LGV Park. I have fond memories of my time with the CW with Swaz. I’m sure as fans you will be looking forward to the game, and it doesn’t get much harder than starting the season with a derby game.
These are my first programme notes of the season, and my first since being appointed as manager of the club.
The club has had to make quite a few changes over the close season due to martin’s resignation and a host of players leaving the clubprior to my appointment, meaning we have had to have a major rebuild of the playing squad. Myself and my two assistants, Leon and Dan, have worked tirelessly over the last two months to get a side together that we think will compete well in the league.
Obviously, when bringing so many players into a team it takes time for them to settle in, get used to different training methods and formations, as well as gelling as a team., but to the players credit they came into pre season training and have worked extremely hard to hopefully be ready in time for the start of the season.
Sadly COVID has played a part in our training, meaning we had to cancel a couple of training sessions, and also games, which unfortunately has meant. that we may be a little behind where I would want us to be at this stage. I am sure however that the determination and willingness to do well for the club will help us through the early stages of the season and allow us to improve as a group.