IF THE trialists in action for Hampton & Richmond Borough at the weekend had hoped to make an impression on boss Alan Dowson they did – but no-one said it was a good impression.
The Beavers dazzled as Dowson’s first choice bewitched Tonbridge Angels 4-0 in Saturday’s Geoff Harvey & Jimmy Hill Memorial Tournament semi-final win at Corinthian Casuals.
But it was a different story on Sunday as a team largely of hopefuls disappointed in a 4-2 final defeat to Hayes & Yeading on Sunday.
Silverware: Hayes & Yeading United lieft the Geoff Harvey & Jimmy Hill Memorial Trophy on Sunday
“I was delighted with our performance on Saturday but we were rubbish on Sunday and I don’t know why they bothered really,” said Dowson.
“There were a lot of people on trial who had sent in their CV saying they had been at Chelsea and this, that and the other.
“Well I can tell you now, the only way some of them have been at Chelsea is by buying a ticket to sit and watch from the stands.”
Not so good: Hampton's Max Oldham had a quiert game on Sunday
There may be doubts over the Hampton & Richmond Borough future of Harold Odametey, but there is one player going nowhere – Christian Jolley.
Odametey switched to the Beveree last week from Kingstonian, but is set for a trial match with National League Dagenham & Redbridge.
Jolley is one of several new faces at the Beveree and he made a good impression.
Under pressure: Zico Benoit on the ball for Hampton against Hayes & Yeading United
“Christian was magnificent. He was absolutely superb,” Dowson added.
Fans are wondering how Dowson will keep his star men happy in the National League South this season.
But the manager believes his job is not as difficult as things may seem.
“People keep telling me what a difficult job I’ve got keeping everyone happy, but I do not see it that way.
On the run: Hampton's Aaron Lamore threatens the Hayes & Yeading United defence on Sunday
“People drop themselves at the end of the day. Performances will decide who gets in the team and if people do not keep performing they will get dropped.
“It is as simple as that.”
Hampton host Aldershot Town at the Bevere tomorrow.
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