Skem close in positive mood

FOLLOWING a treacherous season for Skelmersdale United, they finished it on a high with a positive 1-1 draw against Stafford Rangers.

Defeats have been a common theme in recent weeks but Rogers was delighted his side were able to finish the season strongly.

“I thought we did quite well. We were able to freshen it up a bit as we had a few boys return from Dallas,” said Rogers.

“That helped as we’ve had a tired squad recently and it has taken its toll. I thought the boys did well as they had a really physical team.

“They hit it long to the big guy in front and our guys dealt with it really well. When you looked at our team compared to theirs – we were basically an under19s team with two overage players!

“That is what’s cost us this season but we put in a good performance on Saturday and it was a game we should have won.

“We were on top the first half and had some good chances. We needed to take them. We’re a young team and we are going to make mistakes.

“I won’t accept that next season though. I won’t allow sloppiness.”

Rogers also had praise for goal-scorer Bevin Buray who joined Skelmersdale in the last couple of weeks.

He is one of 71 different players to have represented the club this season – a tally which is unsurprisingly the club’s highest in history.

Rogers hopes to build upon the current squad in the summer and give Skem the chance to challenge for the title next season.

“Bevin [Buray] has come in and done really well. He gives you a bundle of energy and you don’t know what he’s going to do!” said Rogers.

“He has a good effect on other lads. They see him hassling the ball and it encourages others too. He’s been a good example”.