FAIRFORD Town chief Gareth Davies thinks his new-look team have every chance of enjoying a successful campaign, as long as they garner some self-belief.

Despite having the world-famous FA Cup trophy in attendance at Cinder Lane last weekend, Fairford crashed out of the country’s most prestigious cup competition 3-1 defeat to Combined Counties League opponents Knaphill.

But Davies saw plenty of positives in his side’s second-half performance and is hoping that Fairford can draw inspiration from that display when they travel to last season’s champions Tytherington Rocks tomorrow.

“Last weekend was disappointing and we didn’t get the result that we wanted but to be fair, we played well in the second half and there was a lot to take out of it,” said Davies.

“We said to the boys that they just need to believe in themselves because that’s half the battle – they need to realise that they’re a good side.

“Obviously, the other side of it is that it’s a new team this year and the players are still getting to know each other. We’re half of Fairford and half of Malmesbury (Victoria) from last year.

“Sometimes that can happen overnight and sometimes it takes a bit longer than that. That’s just the way it is.

“Tytherington will be another test for us and I think they’ll be pretty similar to us because they’re a new side, with a new manager as well.”

Defender Alex Evans misses this weekend’s trip with a groin injury while midfielder Matt Boucher is at a wedding. Luke Cordery is also unavailable whilst Aaron Dainton still isn’t fit.

Davies added: “It’s an opportunity for the guys that come in – they know that if they play well, they’ll keep the shirt.”

Justin Miller’s Purton, who have started the season with two wins from two matches, travel to Shortwood United Reserves on Saturday whilst New College don’t return to action until August 30 when they go to Tuffley Rovers.