Thatcham manager Jamie Leacock is seeing 'signs of progress' ahead of new Isthmian League season

Thatcham Town manager Jamie Leacock was pleased with their performance despite losing 3-1 to Hendon at the Stacatruc Stadium.

Hendon, who play in the division above the Kingfishers, went 2-0 ahead at half-time, but a penalty from Antonio Dembele gave them a way back into the contest.

However, the visitors made sure of the win late on, but Leacock found plenty of positives from the game.

“It was a brilliant game for us and I came away really pleased with what we did because we played a Hendon side that are in the league above and they’re expected to be in and around the playoffs.

“Our boys did really well, we started off really quickly and we took the game to them, but we did concede a couple of goals in the first-half.

“We dug in, we stayed in the game and we brought the game back to 2-1 before they scored again late on.

“We looked like a team and you can see what we’re working on in training,” he said. “We’re showing signs of progress and ultimately that is what I am looking for.”

Supporters returned to the Stacatruc Stadium for the first time since November 2020 and Leacock was delighted to see them once again.

“We made sure we had good home friendlies and part of getting them was because we want good games of football before the season starts.

“For the fans coming back in, it’s great because hopefully they can see the quality on show and enjoy some friendlies.

“It was a good atmosphere, a lovely afternoon and it just shows you what we have all been missing,” added Leacock.

On Tuesday, Thatcham continued their pre-season preparations with a convincing 4-0 win over neighbours AFC Aldermston at the Stacatruc Stadium.

This weekend, they return to their home ground as they host Hartley Wintney on Saturday afternoon.