Hastings United squad exceeding expectations, says boss Barnes

Hastings United’s squad have exceeded new boss Paul Barnes’ expectations in the first three weeks of pre-season training and friendlies.
By Steve Bone
Published 21st Jul 2023, 08:00 GMT
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That’s the manager’s verdict after seeing them win 4-1 at Ramsgate and 4-2 at Eastbourne Town in the past week with a mixture of likely regulars, academy hopefuls and trialists.

Although Barnes admits pre-season results themselves mean little, he has been greatly heartened by the effort and talent on show so far.

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United step up their preparations for the new Isthmian premier division season with three more friendlies in eight days – away to East Grinstead tomorrow, away to Erith and Belvedere on Thursday and at home to a Charlton Athletic side next Saturday.

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Femi Akinwande in action for Hastings United at Eastbourne Town | Picture: Scott WhiteFemi Akinwande in action for Hastings United at Eastbourne Town | Picture: Scott White
Femi Akinwande in action for Hastings United at Eastbourne Town | Picture: Scott White

There will be a fans’ forum starring Barnes and No2 Craig Stone on Saturday, August 5, and the league campaign begins a week later at home to Cheshunt.

Barnes said: ‘It’s been a very pleasing week. We won 4-1 at Ramsgate with four different goalscorers and 4-2 at Eastbourne Town, again with four different players scoring. "At Ramsgate people were talking about how good we looked.

"We were well-balanced, athletic and technical, which is exactly ewhat we’re looking for.