Louis McGrory enjoying new responsibility in third Hungerford Town spell

Louis McGrory has made a great start to his third spell at Hungerford Town.

The midfield playmaker first joined the club in October 2016, on loan from Forest Green Rovers.

A nomadic existence followed, with McGrory shipped out on loan to a number of non-league sides.

He found a home at Telford United, followed by a move to Weston-super-Mare in 2018.

A year later he made his way to Bulpit Lane, where he’d enjoy a four year spell before spending last season at Gloucester in the National League North.

“I really wanted to try the league”, McGrory said.

“I really wanted to experience it. There's some big games in there, you play in front of big crowds.

“But it was a really tough decision. Danny Robinson and I kept in touch the whole time I was there, every weekend he was checking in on me.

“He’s not just the gaffer, he’s someone who goes above and beyond!

“I played with Alefe Santos and Felix Miles there, so over the Summer I put their names forward to the gaffer and they’ve joined too.”

Back in a Hungerford shirt once again, McGrory is enjoying his football and his increased responsibilities in the dressing room.

“I know a lot of people involved in the club and I've got a bit more responsibility”, he said.

“I've been here for a good number of years, so it's great to have that responsibility of being vice-captain.”

Having been part of Hungerford sides in the National League South, how does McGrory rank the current team compared to those of the past?

“It’s right up there to be honest with you!

“I think we’ve got a lot more technical footballers involved now”, he said.

“It's a slightly different style to some of the other Hungerford sides.

“We've got a sort of warrior side as well as the technical ability, and we've got a great balance throughout the team of youth and experience.”

After a tough start to the season away at Chesham, Hungerford’s form has got back on track.

“It didn't go to plan. It was a bit of a wake up call for all of us”, he said, reflecting on matchday one.

“But since that final whistle, the mentality has been so good.

“The lads are so determined to never let that happen again.

“So in one way, it might be one of the best things that could have happened to us.”

Pre-season was a tough one for all, but the midfielder took his time to relax, too.

“The Summer was a reset for me”, McGrory said.

“My partner Kerry and I always go out to Magaluf… not the mad part mind you!

“We don’t go too crazy. It’s always funny to see how people react though!”

Thriving in the ‘number eight’ role this year, McGrory is keen to contribute.

“I'm definitely looking to add goals and assists to my game this season and chip in.

“Wherever the gaffer plays me, I'll do my bit.

“He wants me to hit the box and create things, setting up goals and I’m really enjoying it!”