Jewson/Hellenic We're starting now to see the real Brislington, says manager Lewton

BRISLINGTON’S new boss Matt Lewton insists the only way is up for his team as they host mid-table Newquay tomorrow eager to rise from an unwanted third-bottom position on the Jewson Western League Premier Division ladder.

- Simon PARKINSON

Matt Lewton, manager of Jewson League Premier Division side Brislington

The 40-year-old Bristolian, who once enjoyed a spell at Brislington and near neighbours Oldland Abbotonians among others as a central midfielder, began the campaign as Lee Lashenko’s coach at Bris’ league rivals Bridgwater United.

Lewton took advantage of the opportunity to take up the Ironmould Lane reins soon into the season when Ash Kington relinquished the position he had held since June to focus on playing commitments.

Although points have remained hard to scoop on a consistent level, Lewton, who also managed Brislington Under-18s' successful Western Counties Floodlight League setup, is adamant they are on the road to recovery.

“It's been very stop-start after a tough preseason for Ash recruiting players, and the big turnover of personnel that went with it” he said. “It was a tough start for me, too, in charge, with five trips to Cornwall and countless midweek games to confront.

“It was during a 10-day break between games that I announced I'd be bringing in more players.

“We signed Asa White, Ben Snell, Shea Mannings, Jordan Scadding, Lewis Saunders, Harrison Kyte, Louie Millard, Owen Lingard, Jay Malpas and the ‘keeper Ryan Smallwood. As a result we had a better mix of young and experienced.

“Results improved: we beat Helston 3-1 away, Buckland 2-1 at home and held a strong (second-placed) Sidmouth side to a 1-1 draw at their place.

“We've been striving to become more professional: the lads are training twice a week and wearing GPS tracking vests to monitor their performances in games.

“We're starting now to see the real Brislington, with a settled and consistent 16-man group.”