Drax determined to get off to good start

Magpies boss Johnson ‘Drax’ Hippolyte is sure that Maidenhead United will be ready for the new season, despite losing all four pre-season outings so far.

However, the teams they have played were always going to give the Magpies a stern test, something Drax was hoping for.

“I’ve had pre-seasons where we’ve beaten top teams and then got off to a poor start in the league,” he said. “I know from experience that pre-season games mean nothing apart from fitness.

“It’s all about getting off to a good start on August 9.”

Their first four games have been against Farnborough, Wycombe Wanderers, Oxford United and Aldershot Town and Drax is hoping that the youngsters in his side will learn a lot from the experience of playing big teams.

“In all respect, it’s quite easy for us to play Beaconsfield Sycob or Slough Town, or you can play the better teams which teaches the youngsters what to do in certain situations. It’s also nice to get those teams down here to York Road.

“Aldershot put on a fantastic display. They were brilliant and we knew it so we tried out a few new systems.

“I’m disappointed that we lost - I always am anytime one of my teams lose.”

Next up for the Magpies is Woking on Saturday and the anticipated return of recently departed Manny Williams.

“I don’t expect it to be as difficult as Aldershot,” said Drax. “But it will be tough.

“Manny will be really fired up for it.”

Drax is also still keen to bring in a frontman but will only make a signing if it is right for the club.

Also, following Lee Newman’s excellent display on Tuesday, it may no longer be necessary.

“I’m still ducking and diving,” claimed Drax. “But yesterday Lee Newman was superb when he came off the bench. If he carries on like that then I won’t need to bring someone in, but I’m still looking for one more but only if it’s the right man.”