STOWMARKET Town are still trying to erase the memory of their Suffolk Senior Cup 6-1 walloping by SIL Coplestonians last month.John Griffin, who manages the Ridgeons League First Division side with Christian Appleford, took a break from preparing his young side for the trip to play Team Bury at Ram Meadow tomorrow to reflect on a result that shook the local football world.

Elvin King

STOWMARKET Town are still trying to erase the memory of their Suffolk Senior Cup 6-1 walloping by SIL Coplestonians last month.

John Griffin, who manages the Ridgeons League First Division side with Christian Appleford, took a break from preparing his young side for the trip to play Team Bury at Ram Meadow tomorrow to reflect on a result that shook the local football world.

“We have no excuses,” said Griffin.

“We've not played that badly before or since, and full marks to Coplestonians as we found there was nothing we could do to stem the tide.

“Our lads were left devastated, but Coplestonians are a great club and it's a pity they have been unable to kick-on after their big win over us.”

Stowmarket's average age is around the 20 mark and with two players touching 30 this shows the youth element in the side.

“We are playing some fantastic football, but a lack of experience is letting us down,” added Griffin.

“It has been heartening how we have been playing but late goals against us have been a blow.

“We were hoping for a top-six finish at the start of the season, but Alan Johnson departed after a couple of games.

“A top 10 place is now the aim and then kick-on next season. There are some great lads in our Under-18 side and we are confident about what the future might bring.”

Christian Appleford, the former Woodbridge Town manager, is joint boss with Griffin, and they will be looking for another good show against Team Bury having beaten them 4-2 in the First Division Cup.

Skipper Gareth Ward will be serving a one-match suspension, but otherwise Griffin and Appleford have a full squad to select from.

“The partnership with Christian is working well,” explained Griffin. “We are like peas in a pod and we are both enjoying it tremendously.”

Plans to improve facilities at Greens Meadow are progressing satisfactory and this will help to attract players in the longer term and help lift Stowmarket back into the Premier Division.

Also in the First Division, Brantham Athletic visit Swaffham Town with Whitton United at home to Downham Town.