Popyk backs Four Crosses ambition

New Four Crosses manager Nick Popyk says that his former club being unable to match his own ambitions was a key reason for switching this season.

The border side is one of six Montgomeryshire League Clubs stepping up to the newly-formed Spar Mid Wales Division Two, with an opening match against Abermule at home this Saturday.

And his switch from neighbours, Trefonen, has ruffled a few local feathers, particularly as six players have made the short journey with him.

“I really wish Trefonen well,” said the 28 year-old. “I was proud of my achievements there but unfortunately it is a club based in England but playing in Wales which means they cannot advance further than the amateur league. I am a very ambitious manager and want to manage at the highest possible level and when I met the Four Crosses board, they sold the club to me straight away and my mind was made up to move.

“In all honesty I don’t believe I did anything wrong and went about it the correct way. I know a few people are upset because some players have come with me but they were given the first opportunity to stay with Trefonen. It was the players that decided to try themselves at a higher level with Four Crosses after I had moved.”

Popyk guided Trefonen from the bottom of the Welsh Pyramid system to Amateur League Champions within 18 months but he is under no illusion of the challenge his new club faces this season.

“It is going to be very tough,” he said. “There are some very strong teams and we will have a lot of travelling to do but as a club we are looking forward to the season and believe we can hold our own.”