Bully: Mid-table finish realistic

Stafford manager Steve Bull believes that a top-half finish is about the best Rangers' fans can expect as they embark on their first season back in the Blue Square North.

Bully takes charge of his first full campaign not expecting much from his side, who have endured a troubled year, but things look to be on the up for the Marston Road men.

The difference in fitness was clear to see even in a 3-0 pre-season defeat against Football League opposition in Shrewsbury, the three training sessions a week implemented looking to be the difference, as Rangers were not found wanting - in terms of legs at least.

Bully admits the side are more of a work in progress at the moment and is urging the Marston Road faithful to be patient.

He said: "At the end of the day, we are a young side and we will take time to gel. We have a new staff, new players and it is likely to take a bit of time to come together.

"But already this feels more like my team. We have moved on a lot of the players that I did not want and I can see the difference.

"A top-half finish in a season of consolidation is about what we are looking for. That is not being defeatist, that is being realistic. Anybody who thinks that we are just going to walk such a strong league is getting carried away.

"What I can assure you is that the time will be giving 100% whenever they put on a Stafford Rangers shirt."

Bully also hailed goalkeeper Danny Alcock, who was at his best again to keep the Shrews at bay on Saturday.

The managers choice for 'Player of the Year' last year, he again showed his loyalty to the club in staying after a troubled campaign, which ultimately in relegation from the Blue Square Premier.

Bull said: "Danny is different class. A thoroughly good lad and a great goalkeeper to boot. He is not an England C player for nothing.

"There were times last season when we were losing 3-0 or 4-0 and if it had not been for Danny, it would have been a hell of a lot worse."