FOLLOWING THE SALTMEN

All good things come to an end and Spa’s 100% start to the season faltered slightly last weekend when a much depleted ten men conceded a hotly contested equaliser deep in injury time at Abingdon United. The Saltmen return to action tomorrow in an FA Vase qualifying tie against near neighbours Bewdley Town and will no doubt be keen to return to winning ways.

The game takes place only 3 weeks since the clubs met in league action at Kingys, with Spa the victors one that occasion by a 6-2 margin. FTS understands that a number of the players unavailable last week will be in contention for there cup game.

Spa remain in a strong position at the top of the division and are still undefeated in all competitions but as we know one off cup ties don’t always follow there form book. The recent game at Kingys revealed enough to show that the Riversiders will prove tough opponents and will be keen to progress in the Vase. All is set for a cracking cup tie.

As always, the team would value your support and it would be great if you could join me at the Riverside ground in Ribbesford to cheer the boys in red and black on.

Finally, I would like to say a few words about one of our opponents at last week’s Abingdon United game. It was reported during the week that Jack Badger, who wore the number 2 shirt for Abingdon last Saturday, has died. While I have no firm knowledge as to how or why this happened, I have heard it suggested that mental health issues may be involved. If so, this makes Jack’s passing even more tragic. Speaking as someone who has experienced depression and anxiety for a number of years, and without wishing to sound preachy, I would urge anyone suffering with such issues to share their feelings with a friend or family member or with their GP. I know just how hard it can be to accept you are having mental health issues, let alone discussing this with others. However, you will be surprised how much help and acceptance is available. There really is no need to suffer in silence so please speak up and take any assistance that helps.

Thanks for reading. Stay well and keep following the Saltmen.

Cheers

Steve