Heacham 'fighting fit' as they seek another promotion
Forward-thinking Heacham have left no stone unturned in their bid to gain promotion from the Anglian Combination this season.
While performances on the pitch have dominated the headlines, the work which goes on off it has been a key factor in the success, according to manager David Griggs.
As well as hours of traditional football coaching on the training ground, the Magpies have made sure their players are in prime shape in order to get an edge on their opponents.
And the proof is certainly in the pudding with the club winning all 19 of their league and cup matches heading into the new year.
Griggs believes Heacham’s approach from the close season has been a “huge benefit” to his players.
“Our success has been down to a really good pre-season,” said Griggs.
“Ross (McNeil) and Sean (McQuaid) really made sure the players were well prepared over the summer and that has been key.
“There have been several close games this season where our superior fitness has kicked in over the last 20 or 30 minutes of a game.
“Yes we’ve had injuries but our squad is generally fitter than it has ever been and our strength in depth this season has been incredible.
“When you think we’ve been without the likes of Nathan Daws and Jack Defty, who are massive players for us, for long parts of the season, the lads who have come in have done really well.
“That is also testament to the work going on in the reserve team at the club. Whenever we’ve given them or taken a player their attitude has been superb.”
The Magpies, who have put in a seven-day approach for a new player, are next back in action when they host Bradenham in the Anglian Combination Premier Division on January 8.
It promises to be the start of a tough run of games with Heacham on the road in five of their next six fixtures.
And if they can come through those relatively unscathed, then Griggs sees no reason why they can’t go through the whole league campaign unbeaten.
“At the moment it’s still about taking one game at a time and ticking them off as we go off.
“Yes it is possible that we could remain unbeaten in the league but it wouldn’t bother me if we lost two or three games in the end as long as we end up winning it which has always been our main aim.”