Experimental Leigh

TIVVY manager Leigh Robinson plans to use Yellows' packed pre-season schedule to really get to know his new-look squad.

Town make the short hop to Cullompton Rangers on Friday night for the third of nine games scheduled in just 26 days as they build-up to their 2024-25 Pitching In Southern League Premier Division South campaign.

Leigh Robinson

With seven new signings this summer and a bunch of Under-18s stepping up for consideration for a place in the senior squad, there is much for Leigh to weigh up and try out at this vital time of the year.

He is, therefore, less concerned than he might be about the unavailability for Rangers of several of his squad who have played in two impressive recent performances at Wells and against a strong Exeter City team: Joe Parker, Niall Thompson and Javan Wright.

"The game will give us a chance to give some longer game-time to the lads who haven’t started so far this pre season," said Leigh. "We’ll also give a few Under-18s a prolonged run-out to see what they can do."

Also mindful of the physical effort required to play a game every three days for nearly four weeks, Leigh is likely to rotate some players who have started the two matches so far with his previous bench, captain Matt Britton and Dylan Jones - man of the match against Exeter, among them.

Leigh said: "With a few less bodies available, it’s a good chance to see who can get through 90 minutes and maybe experiment with a few different positions and formations, too."

Friday's match at Adopstar Park kicks off at 7.30pm.