Loxwood boss aiming to compete in Division 1

JPCT 191013 Football - Loxwood v Rustington. Photo by Derek Martin ENGPPP00420131021113406

The Magpies will kick off for the first-ever time in the top flight on Saturday when they host fellow promoted side Broadbridge Heath.

Of the side that finished last season as winners of the Division 2 Cup, no-one has left the club.

They have made a number of additions; goalkeeper Sam Smith returns from Horsham YMCA and centre-back Tom Familton has joined from Dorking.

Former professional Mark Beard has joined the club. The ex-Millwall midfielder is also running the club’s academy side. Another new recruit is former Horsham and YMCA midfield man Adam Hutchings.

Cocoracchio said: “We have put together a squad that we want to compete. It was important that we did not lose any players and we have re-signed everyone we wanted to re-sign.

“There were four or five key signings we wanted to make and we have made them.

“From my point of view, I am looking forward to the season. We have prepared well with a good pre-season against tough opposition.”

Pick up this week’s paper for an interview with Loxwood chairman Barry Hunter, who has seen the club realise their dream.