Yeovil Town’s manager Billy Rowley expressed satisfaction after his side launched their pre-season campaign with a strong 4-1 victory against Melksham Town. Despite having only about ten days of training together, Rowley noted the team’s surprising familiarity and cohesion on the pitch.
“The fact that we have trained only around ten times makes it encouraging to see how familiar we already look with each other,” Rowley said. The Glovers set a commanding tone early, with Luke McCormick netting two goals around Stephen Walker’s first for the club, securing a 3-1 lead at halftime. The squad fielded a fresh lineup in the second half, with Brett McGavin sealing the win by curling home a signature free-kick.
Rowley praised the team’s tactical understanding and timing. “Our movements and timings were on point, and when we stuck to the plan, we looked really good,” he added. McCormick stood out, particularly after returning from injury, with the manager describing it as if Yeovil “signed a new player.”
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“The fire’s lit in Macca this year, and he’s determined to be one of the league’s top performers,” Rowley said. Among the 13 new signings, Stephen Walker impressed as well, opening his Glovers account with a goal that the manager highlighted for both its quality and Walker’s pedigree.
However, the match wasn’t without concern. Defender Joy Mukena was forced off early due to a hamstring issue he has been managing all week. Rowley explained, “Joy has a neural hamstring injury. He saw a specialist recently, so our focus now is on patching him up over the coming weeks.”
Mukena’s replacement, 19-year-old trialist William Lannin-Sweet, made a positive impression. “He’s had a top upbringing through Arsenal’s youth ranks, with a lovely left foot and impressive composure,” noted Rowley.
Another trialist was former Yeovil player Johnathon Page, released last season following injury setbacks. Rowley acknowledged Page’s determination: “He returned because he wants to prove himself and earn a spot.”
Overall, Rowley was delighted with the squad’s attitude and the support from fans. “I haven’t got a bad word for anyone; the attitude and the supporters were excellent.”
Yeovil Town now looks ahead to their next pre-season fixture, traveling to face National League North side Merthyr Town this Tuesday evening.