NEW Woodcote Stoke Row player-manager Sam Tucker is hoping to make his mark after taking over from former boss Ross Weatherstone, writes Richard Ashton.

Last season’s runners-up begin their bid to go one better in the Premier Division with a trip to newly-promoted Richings Park this Saturday, and Tucker is hoping to build on an encouraging pre-season which has seen his side draw with Saxton Rovers, Wallingford Town and Mortimer.

He told the Chronicle: “(Chairman) Pete (Mcallister) has given me a target of a top-four finish in my first year, but deep down I’d love to win the league.

“However, I think it will be extra tough this year as Reading YMCA are unbeaten in two seasons now and Marlow, Cookham Dean and Mortimer have all strengthened from last year.”

He continued: “We’ve made several good signings and are hopeful of bringing in a couple more before the season starts on Saturday as I think at the moment we are maybe one or two signings away from being able to make a real push for the league.”

Former Thatcham Town man Tucker admitted he will be learning on the job, but remains optimistic of a good season for WSR.

He revealed: “I think the toughest thing for me will be trying to play as well as manage, although having Darren Russell as my assistant will be a massive help as he has a wealth of football knowledge.

“I’m fairly inexperienced in terms of management with my only real experience coming from when I used to run Bulmershe in the Reading & District Sunday League Senior Division.

“However I get on really well with all the lads at Woodcote and it’s a really well-run club with close-knit support, so I’m quietly confident of what can be achieved.”

Meanwhile, favourites Reading YMCA – who have not been beaten in the league for a remarkable 57 matches – begin their campaign at Mortimer, while last season’s Division One runners-up Burghfield host Wraysbury Village.

Cookham Dean are at home to Reading City Under 23s, and Marlow United host Wokingham & Emmbrook Reserves.