Match Preview

Norwich United Manager Steve's Eastaugh's programme notes ahead of Saturday's FA Cup tie against Long Buckby AFC

Good afternoon everybody and welcome to the players, staff and supporters of Long Buckby AFC for today’s FA Cup tie here at Plantation Park.

This week has not been the start we had all hoped for but it is the start we deserved, with Tuesday nights trip to Fakenham of particular disappointment. We have said since the league was announced that this will be a very competitive league and all the promoted clubs will significantly improve the league from previous seasons.

We didn’t heed our own warnings and delivered a lacklustre display, being out-worked and gift wrapping goals that are very uncharacteristic for us. The highlight was a senior debut goal for Lennie Blythe who continues to impress.

We plan to use the experience as an early reminder of what a difficult campaign this is going to be and the levels of consistency that will be needed if we hope to challenge at the top of the division.

We were pleased this week to complete the signing of Alby Matthews who had spent pre season with us. Alby is a strong, quick forward who can operate down the middle or in wide areas. We were impressed with Alby’s ability but more importantly his attitude, and after earning his contract we are keen to help him develop at Norwich United.

Enjoy the game

Steve Eastaugh
Norwich United Manager