Devy’s cause for optimism

A QUICK glance at the Huddersfield League Division One table might suggest that Diggle — currently second-from-bottom — are a club in crisis.

But the wet weather hasn’t helped Diggle’s cause this season, with Richard Devy’s side playing only three matches — all away — in the past three months.

“It has been a frustrating time for us because of the weather, but another problem we are having is getting the same players to turn up week-in, week-out,” said Devy. “We are getting 25-30 players for training, but for one reason or another, outside influences like televised football mean that we can’t get a settled side. It’s a problem in amateur football and amateur sport in general.

“Added to that is the fact that we had a massive turnover of players in the summer. A big recruitment drive has brought us younger players, and I know they will be good for the future of the club.”

Aside from bottom club Holmfirth Town, Diggle have good reason to be optimistic about avoiding the drop as only five points separates them and the six teams above.

And the side has a few games in hand...

The Diggle boss added: “It is three up and three down this season and it’s important we finish above the drop zone. I am confident it can be done.”

Diggle have two potential meetings with Division One leaders Heyside on the horizon, in The Huddersfield FA Challenge Cup and the league’s Barlow Cup. The first step towards realising those fixtures comes tomorrow at Churchill playing fields when Diggle entertain Kirkheaton Rovers (Division Two) in the Barlow Cup (1.45pm) for the chance to play Heyside in the quarter-finals.

Also tomorrow, high-flying Moorside go to Slaithwaite United for a Groom Cup tie, while second-placed 3D Dynamos entertain basement boys Mount in Division Four at Firgrove playing fields, Rochdale (2.15pm).

The only Huddersfield League action involving local sides last weekend came in Reserves Division One, with Heyside losing 6-4 at home against Hepworth United.