James Melhado: Togetherness is key
10 hours ago | 01.10.2025, 08:40
Warrington Town right-back James Melhado insists the squad have used an early-season break in fixtures to their advantage as they prepare for a return to action this weekend.
After two-and-a-half weeks without a game, the Yellows will travel to Greater Manchester on Saturday to face Hyde United in the FA Trophy.
A difficult start to the league season has seen Paul Carden's side collect just one win from their opening eight games, and while Melhado admits a real sense of frustration following recent results, he says the group are experienced enough to turn their fortunes around.
He said: "It has been a pretty tough start, which is highly frustrating given the group that we have and the quality that’s in the changing room.
"I think it’s clear to see over the last couple of games that we’ve ironed a few bits out tactically and stripped it back slightly, mainly in terms of our approach and how we’re wanting to play.
"We’re all starting to build that understanding of each other’s game, but naturally it does take a little bit of time.
"We’ve got a good group with some really experienced lads, and everyone has been keeping in high spirits during training.
"We're looking to kick on now and put any doubts people may have about us to bed."
Prior to their enforced absence, the Yellows had drawn back-to-back games against Rushall Olympic and Prescot Cables.
While they find themselves struggling at the wrong end of the Northern Premier League table, their first involvement in this season's FA Trophy will provide them with an opportunity to divert their focus elsewhere.
Saturday's opponents, Hyde, have enjoyed a recent resurgence of their own, winning three of their last four games, but summer signing Melhado is well aware of the importance of a cup run after Town's disappointing early exit from this season's FA Cup.
"I think a cup run for any club is massive," he added.
"All players want to win trophies and play in finals at the end of the day, so getting a good result is really important and can jump-start our season."
After two-and-a-half weeks without a game, the Yellows will travel to Greater Manchester on Saturday to face Hyde United in the FA Trophy.
A difficult start to the league season has seen Paul Carden's side collect just one win from their opening eight games, and while Melhado admits a real sense of frustration following recent results, he says the group are experienced enough to turn their fortunes around.
He said: "It has been a pretty tough start, which is highly frustrating given the group that we have and the quality that’s in the changing room.
"I think it’s clear to see over the last couple of games that we’ve ironed a few bits out tactically and stripped it back slightly, mainly in terms of our approach and how we’re wanting to play.
"We’re all starting to build that understanding of each other’s game, but naturally it does take a little bit of time.
"We’ve got a good group with some really experienced lads, and everyone has been keeping in high spirits during training.
"We're looking to kick on now and put any doubts people may have about us to bed."
Prior to their enforced absence, the Yellows had drawn back-to-back games against Rushall Olympic and Prescot Cables.
While they find themselves struggling at the wrong end of the Northern Premier League table, their first involvement in this season's FA Trophy will provide them with an opportunity to divert their focus elsewhere.
Saturday's opponents, Hyde, have enjoyed a recent resurgence of their own, winning three of their last four games, but summer signing Melhado is well aware of the importance of a cup run after Town's disappointing early exit from this season's FA Cup.
"I think a cup run for any club is massive," he added.
"All players want to win trophies and play in finals at the end of the day, so getting a good result is really important and can jump-start our season."
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