We are 5 games into the new season and I think its fair to say that I think the opening games have shown what a step up in standard Step 2 is compared to Step 3.
It feels like the last couple of games we have finally started to settle into the league ending with a great performance away at Buxton on Monday. We now have 3 games against Leamington, Rushall Olympic and Darlington before our FA Cup game so it would be great to see us get some more points on the board.
Neil is still looking for a couple of players to strengthen and complete the squad but he has always been clear that it is about taking the right players not just a number and he will continue to work hard to try and find the players that can improve us.
I have got to say that I love being in Step 2 and the professionalism at this level is a big improvement compared to Step 3. But with that brings challenges and we have got to make sure we have stepped-up on and off the field to give us the best chance at doing as best we can at the level.
By way of update on some of the off-field changes that are currently happening:
- Scoreboard – We had to wait for council planning permission to come through which did come through early July. We have since placed the order for the Scoreboard which was on a 4 week lead time and is therefore due to be installed in September
- Stand at far end – We were granted planning permission in July and have applied for a 70% grant from the Football Foundation. We are still awaiting confirmation that that has been approved which we are hoping to get in September. The stand company have booked us in for an installation slot in January
- TV gantry – We will hopefully hear that by the end of next week we will have been granted planning permission. This will be installed within 2 weeks of being granted planning permission
- Community hub – We have received planning permission but are just awaiting confirmation of an additional grant before placing the order for the hub
- Drinks provision – We have invested £10k in a new in-stadium bar which is being built as we speak by the big Kahoona group. We also have purchased 2 additional mini bars which will be installed over the next 2 weeks.
- Food provision – We have for every game this season had a 3rd food kiosk, the van at the college road end to try and reduce queues. This has been utilised so far
I keep using the phrase step-up. Once the above is completed, the stadium will again look a real improvement from where it is now and be even more fitting for a team competing in the National League North.
In terms of our search for a new ground, we are progressing positively, however are not in a position yet to make any formal updates but we will as soon as we can.
Sonia our fans liaison officer is doing a great job getting feedback and trying to tick off some of the points or suggestions people are making – email fans@marinefc.com with any suggestions.
Our sporting dinner with Alan Stubbs on Friday 4th October is still on sale so if you can make it https://marinefc.ktckts.com/event/mfcsd041024/marine-fc-sporting-dinner-with-alan-stubbs
Finally to thank all of our supporters – The support so far this season home and away has been brilliant. It was great to see how much that win against Buxton meant to everyone with the celebrations after the game.
We have been on the march for 5-years now making tonnes of progress on and off the field. If we keep sticking together it will give us the best chance of being as competitive as we can over the coming years.
Thanks,
James
