one competitive game, one friendly, and two games called off !!. On top of that, it has been well documented by others what they assume has gone on at this Football Club.

It was a massive shock to learn that three players from last season had signed for Crawley Down (with possibly a fourth to come). Had they let us know, rather than deny it for two weeks, then maybe things would have been easier to take.

Let's get things straight here. Terry and I were specifically asked to work with these lads for a few years to help improve their games, and see where it went from there. The players were well aware of this, as it was them that refused to train under the previous manager, because they believed he couldn't take them any further. That was one of the factors which ultimately cost him his job.

So for them to sign for him again was nothing short of unbelievable. We felt insulted as we had all worked so hard to achieve what we did last season, and that includes the players concerned - all were magnificent.

I have never knocked any Club that wants to attempt to "buy success" - that is their choice. If I was offered it as a manager, of course I'd take it - I am no hypocrite. I can only say it can be a dangerous game !!!

All the pressure of winning the League is now with Crawley Down as far as I'm concerned. They have promised those concerned Ryman League Football next season. That, together with some alarming reports of wages I've heard about, is a heavy burden to carry around until next May.

Never in my time in football have I conceded defeat before a ball is kicked, but it is going to be really hard for us to achieve anything but to stay in Division 1 this season. However, anyone who knows us will not write us out of any game. We will not allow our players to concede anything..... we will battle and play to the highest level we can. They will learn and improve.

On top of that, we have signed some good replacements and, in Terry Hall, I have the best Coach I have ever worked with - all the players will testament to that. We intend to work with the Youth players that did so well last season, and of course the new ones too.

Shaun Saunders has been instrumental in helping to achieve this. I'm delighted he chose to stay with us following an approach made to him the other week by Crawley Down (despite him being our Vice-Chairman and Main Sponsor)

Morales are no longer an issue in football, are they ??

I know last week that another local Club persuaded a player that is signed for us, and still is, to play in a friendly for them because ours was off !!. Incredible really - that young lad could have got into serious trouble I think. Do the Club concerned care? - I doubt it !!

I am not an "Arsene Wenger" type voyeur - I just concentrate on my Club and my players. So to all the knockers and "voyeurs"........

Let Battle Commence !!

If you beat us, you will get a handshake from me - I believe that's what "sport" is all about. The fact that I have a proven track record doesn't worry me - although it seems to concern others.

Good luck to everyone for the coming season - but especially us !!

Peter Edwards