Murray's Mint

IF Jay Murray's introduction to Yellows’ supporters is anything to go by, the evidence suggests his presence is going to be felt as much off the field as on it.

For starters, amid the more formal traditional photographs of club photographer Viv Curtis recording for prosperity and social media his joining from Bridgwater, there is a lovely snap of him and manager Leigh Robinson clearly enjoying each other's company.

Then there’s the quick fire quip to the equally traditional day one question: What type of player do you consider yourself to be?

“On or off the pitch?” is the cheeky comeback from the player who made a name for himself in National League South with Weston-super-Mare.

Then, more seriously: “I’m quite energetic and lively. I like running, so I knew coming here was a good choice, because I know they work hard. Quick and nippy is probably the best way to put it.

“I’m fairly versatile. I can play high or wide or also can play in midfield or as a full-back as I did at Weston. A bit of everything.”

Jay, whose father Scott played many times for, and is now kitman and ambassador for, Bristol City, is no stranger to the Ian Moorcroft Stadium.

He said: “It’s a massive club. I've played a couple of times here and it's a nice little set-up; it feels like a proper non-league football club. It's well run and the fans were bouncing both times I played for Weston here.

"I chose Tiverton because I know some of the boys here and that made my thinking a bit clearer. I'm just looking forward to getting going.

“I’m absolutely buzzing. Obviously it’s going to be a different environment to start off with, but I feel I get quite comfortable quickly because of my personality, so it’s quite nice.

“I’m looking forward to getting into it and hopefully it becomes natural as soon as possible.”

With the start of pre-season now being counted down in days, rather than weeks, Jay is beginning to focus on group and personal ambitions.

“As a team, to try and do better than last year would be a good start,” he said. “For everyone to get as busy as possible and get a little run going. It’s always nice to go on a little run and get everyone together, because, once you can do that, it’s hard to beat spirit.

“On a personal note, my aim is to play as much as I can and influence the game; trying to do the best that I possibly can.”

With, one suspects, a smile never far from his face.

Jay Murray is available for sponsorship for the 2024-25 season. If you would like to sponsor him, or for further details, please email chairman@tivertontownfc.co.uk