Too Good To Turn Down - Blain Returns to County

From www.haverfordwestcounty.co.uk

Speaking to the website on Saturday, Dylan Blain said that the chance to return to Haverfordwest County was too good to turn down. Dylan was in discussions with the club in the January transfer window, and said that after moving back to Whitland, "the fact that Derek had approached me in January was in my mind, it's always nice to be wanted as a player, and the offer came up again, and it was too good to turn down"

Returning to the club he left two years ago after making over 160 league appearances for the club, he says he has all ready noticed some changes in the attitude at the New Bridge Meadow, and a positive atmosphere. "Derek and Mark have brought a professionalism to the club, and they are looking to push on and improve every season."

And those changes could lead to a top six finish. "It's definitely a realistic target," he said. "Top three is difficult due to the money that those clubs are shelling out, so to be realistic 4th, 5th or 6th is definitely a target."

Dylan also appreciates the current set up at the club. He praised the academy set up and the number of good youngsters at the club, and that while he could give them advice, they might be able to help him with his game. Anyone who has been to the training sessions will have noticed the encouragement and advice he has given to younger players in practice matches. It was not only the young players that he mentioned.

"When you play against Gareth Elliott you know you are in for a physical game, and you'd rather have him on your team than against him. With the additions of Lee Jarman and Craig Hanford, we will be strong at the back. We have a good spine through the team and if Jack Christopher can score as many goals as last season, and maybe go on from there, we will have a good season."

Despite the departure of Lee Hudgell, and Chris O'Sullivan, and the delayed return of Neil Thomas, Derek Brazil has an array of midfield options, with the likes of Simon Gilderdale, Tom Ramasut, Mike Hartley, Adam Raymond, Dyfan Pierce and Paul Michael battling Dylan for starting places. That can only be good for the team, he said.

"So many players pushing for spots keeps you on your toes, keeps you on the edge, and makes you train harder to stay in the team. No-one wants to be left out."

County fans will have a chance to see how the new side is shaping up before the new season starts with home pre-season matches against Clydach and Cambrian on the 22nd of July (7:30 k.o.), F.A.Cup finalists Cardiff City on the 29th (2:30), and last season's League One Champions Swansea City on the 5th of August (7:30). There are also two away fixtures against Cirencester Town on the 2nd of August and Goytre on the 9th.

For more information contact the club on 01437 769048