Winchester City will give another runout to frontrunner Steffan Gaisie when they pit their wits against Blue Square Bet South outfit Basingstoke Town at the Denplan City Ground tonight (7.45pm).
The Ghana-born former Southend, Havant & Waterlooville and Bishops Stortford striker formed a devastating partnership with hat-trick man Michael Charles as City put Ryman Division One South outfit Worthing to the sword 7-0 on Saturday.
He was introduced to Winchester by new management team member Mick Jenkins, who previously signed him during his spell in charge of Bognor Regis Town.
“Steffan’s a city trader, so it’s not all about money with him,” said Jenkins.
“He started like a train when I took him to Bognor, scoring four in five, but Bognor weren’t doing so well at that time and it’s hard to keep getting goals if you don’t get the chances.
“But Steffan has always got goals at Ryman level and our front play against Worthing on Saturday was exceptional. Charlesy’s a renowned goalscorer and Steffan complemented him well.
“If ever there was a game to guage how we are going to go this season this was the most realistic because Worthing are at the same level as us. All the other pre-season games we’ve played, and those going forward, are against League or Conference South opposition.
“Maybe by winning 7-0, we’ve given the players a false sense of security!” he smiled.
“I didn’t know what to expect at Winchester, but I’m definitely warming to it. The front play, work ethic and attitude of the players was outstanding on Saturday.”
Jenkins has worked with some shrewd footballing brains over the years and is looking forward to striking up a winning partnership with Guy Butters as Winchester prepare for their return to the Southern League.
It follows a satisfying 2011/12 when Butters – a former Spurs and Brighton & Hove Albion defender - guided the club to the Sydenhams Premier title.
“Wherever I’ve been in football I’ve worked with knowledgable people like Liam Daish at Havant, Steve Claridge at Weymouth, Steve Johnson at Dorchester and Andy Awford at Bognor and I see Guy in that mould,” said Jenkins. “I know him ever so well, going back to his Pompey playing days, and I look forward to working with him.” Powerhouse striker Michael Dixon, who was with City two seasons ago, is expected to rejoin the club and there are also moves afoot to sign Sholing frontrunner Daniel Mason – younger brother of Barry and Byron.
Winchester have another big friendly test ahead on Saturday at home to AFC Bournemouth (3pm).
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