Brakes’ defender chase stalls

Leamington manager Paul Holleran is being frustrated in his plans to strengthen defensively.

Holleran had hoped to bring in a right-sided player in the last few days, but fresh interest from a Football League club has complicated the move.

With the player now weighing up his options, Holleran does not expect any more transfer activity before pre-season gets under way with a trip to Stafford Rangers on July 12.

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However, there was some good news for the club with the announcement that Luke Connolly and James Mace have agreed terms for the forthcoming campaign.

It will be Mace’s fourth season at the New Windmill, with the central defender’s consistent performances last season seeing him voted Players’ Player of the Season and narrowly missing out on the supporters’ award.

Connolly endured a frustrating campaign after signing from Solihull Moors in October, with ankle ligament damage restricting him to just five appearances.

However, his man-of-the-match performance at Stalybridge Celtic gave notice of the defender’s potential.

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Peter Till will not be returning for the 2014/15, campaign, though, with the attacking midfielder having opted to join Halesowen Town.

“We thank Peter for his time with us in the second half of last season and wish him all the best,” said Holleran. “He is joining a super non-league club in Halesowen and I’m sure he will do well for them.”

Off the pitch, Holleran has strengthened his backrooom staff by bringing in experienced physiotherapist Pete Denham.

A series of niggling injuries blighted Brakes’ first foray in to the Conference North and Holleran believes Denham, who has had spells at Tamworth, Halesowen and Solihull Moors since qualifying in 1998, will prove a valuable addition.

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He said: “From my point of view it is brilliant to get someone as experienced and knowledgeable as Pete.

“We’ve had some super young people working at the club over the last 12 to 18 months but he is a good, experienced first-team physio, who Dan Ward will assist and I’m sure we will all feel the benefit as we go along.”

Mark Davidson is also returning to his kitman role having stepped down midway through last season.

 There will be a further trial for the proposed Brakes youth and under-21 development teams at Stockton FC tomorrow (11am to 1pm).

All those who attended the initial trial are welcome to return, while new trialists should notify their interest in advance by emailing Brian Halpin at [email protected]