Trophy bid as Buxton gear up for the big kick-off

Buxton Fc v Chesterfield (red), Buxton assistant manager Tim Ryan

Buxton take on Glossop for the High Peak Radio trophy four days after an excellent 4-1 away win at Leek on Tuesday, which follow fine draws with League sides Chesterfield and Burton Albion over the last week.

“Last night and Glossop on Saturday are more realistic games to where where are at this season than Burton and Chesterfield,” said Ryan, looking after the team until manager Martin McIntosh returns from holiday this week.

“They are much more realistic tests, so fair play to the lads as they applied themselves really well at Leek and put on a really good show.

“We could have had four or five more goals on the night to be honest.

“Saturday is our final friendly against Glossop. We have been building up and trying to mould our five or six new players into the squad.

“I wouldn’t say Saturday would be the XI to start to the season, though, as we still have a few trialists to bed in and blood and we also still have one or two away on holiday.”

Buxton finished 11th last season, but Ryan was hopeful they could build on that this time around while still helping young, talented players get to a higher level.

“What we have done since I’ve been here, and before that with the gaffer, is make a steady progression, though our final league position is sometimes not the one you wanted,” he said.

“But the gaffer is building up a reputation of moving players on and each season we have had two or three go on to higher levels and we have received fees for one or two.

“It would be brilliant to have a little bit of a go this year and progress further up the league. But it’s a tough season and it’s a long season.

“It’s tough to predict for this year but we are certainly hoping to improve on last year.”

At Leek Lee Bennett and Nicky Walker scored a brace apiece following Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Chesterfield.

Last Wednesday Buxton drew 1-1 in a competitive friendly against a Burton side featuring several vastly experienced players. Lee Bennett’s early strike was wiped out by Lucas Akins’ 70th minute equaliser.