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With the new non-league football season a matter of weeks away, the Bedford Independent had an exclusive sit-down with Bedford Town FC manager Lee Bircham at The Eyrie. The conversation spanned topics ranging from new signings and pitch renovations to play-off triumphs and the club's ambitions for the coming campaign.
The Road to Promotion
Last season was a remarkable one for Bedford Town FC, as they secured promotion to step three of the English football pyramid with a thrilling 2-1 play-off final victory against Waltham Abbey. The atmosphere surrounding the team has been electric, fueled by memories of famous FA Cup ties against giants like Arsenal and Peterborough United at their home ground, The Eyrie.
“We Want More Than Just Survival”: Bircham’s Vision
In his pre-season interview, manager Lee Bircham made it clear that the team is not just aiming for survival but has higher expectations for the upcoming season. “We exceeded expectations last season, and we have no intention of stopping there,” Bircham stated. The manager's comments reflect a growing sense of ambition within the club as they prepare for another action-packed non-league campaign.
Challenges Ahead: Pitch Renovations Delayed
Source: https://www.bedfordindependent.co.uk/watch-we-want-more-than-just-survival-says-bedford-town-manager-lee-bircham-in-pre-season-interview/
However, not everything is going smoothly on the home front. Over the weekend, Bedford Town FC announced that renovations to The Eyrie pitch had been delayed and would not be ready for the start of the season. This delay poses potential issues for the club’s first home league game, scheduled for 13th August against Royston Town.
“We are working on a number of solutions for our first home games of the season and we will update [fans] as soon as we have those plans confirmed and in place,” read a statement from the club's social media pages. It is yet another challenge for a club that has shown resilience and adaptability over the years.
Looking Ahead: Season Ticket Sales and Fan Engagement
Despite these challenges, the excitement for the new season remains palpable among fans. Season tickets for Bedford Town FC are now available for purchase, offering supporters the chance to be part of what promises to be an exhilarating season. With new signings adding to the squad’s strength and a renewed sense of purpose driving them forward, Bedford Town FC appears well-equipped to face whatever comes their way.
As the countdown to the new season continues, all eyes will be on how Lee Bircham and his squad handle the twin pressures of higher expectations and logistical hurdles. One thing is certain: Bedford Town FC is a team on the rise, intent on making their mark in the annals of non-league football.
