BIDEFORD will be trying to go one better than last year once the new season gets up and running with a home game against Tavistock.
Paul Heard’s team were third in the final B Division table last summer, 19 points behind Ivybridge, who went up in the second promotion place.
Bideford had an unhappy time in the A Division in 2015, dropping straight out in their first season back, but remain keen to get up again.
Said Heard: “We have a real chance of promotion if we play to our potential.
“No new players, but we have a solid squad of promising talent and we will look to compete for the title.
“We have a couple of familiar games against hard opposition but with more experience as a team.
“Tavistock, Seaton and Ottery will be a tough start and may shape our season so it's important to start well.”
New to Westward Ho! this summer is Jayson Bartolo, a Rhodesian-born South African with a Portuguese passport.
So far, Heard likes the look of what Bartolo can offer.
Jayson will contribute in all aspects,” predicted Heard.
“He looks like a good bowling option and likes to spend time at the crease.
“Jayson has impressed in our pre-season games and training.”
TAVISTOCK captain Shaun Daymond has delivered a statement of intent on the eve of a new season
“We're pushing for promotion this season,” said Daymond, who takes Tavvy to Bideford tomorrow.
“We've been in this divisino long enough to know what it takes to win it.
“We're hoping with our new signings and better availability, we can win it.”
Tavistock finished fifth last season, 33 points shy of the second promotion spot.
That may not seem a likely springboard, but Tavistock played the season without an overseas player, unlike the four teams ahead of them.
Dalton Kannemeyer was injured in the first match of the season and by the end of week one was on his way back to South Africa.
Daymond has a overseas player in place for the season and a clutch of local signings too.
“Dylan Aucamp, our overseas this season, is a left-arm opening bowler and also a very handy batsmen,” said Daymond.
“Billy and Charlie Barriball are very talented in both departments, and Rob Bone is a wicket-taking spinner, who can bat as well.
“Sean Cleave is back this season after a year out, which adds depth in all departments.”
The Barriball brothers and Rob Bone have made the short hike over the Moor from Whitchurch, who were relegated into the D Division West at the end of last season.
