Dev makes changes after Chesham debacle (Story posted 04.04.02)

THE EASTER weekend failed to resurrect Maidenhead United’s season, as they suffered an unlucky defeat at Kingstonian, before being crucified by Chesham at York Road.
The latter result in particular bodes ill for United, as they face a rematch against their local rivals in the final of the Berks & Bucks Cup.
Coach Alan Devonshire said: “I was quite pleased with Saturday’s performance but then we came down with a bump on Monday.
“In six seasons we have never been beaten like that at home. It’s not acceptable.
“None of the players did themselves any credit.”
Devonshire’s hopes of a good midtable finish also took a severe dent, as the results saw the Magpies slip into 17th place in the table.
He added: “We got into a position where we could break into the top 10 and then our form dropped off.
“It’s a shame because that’s what people will remember.
“It’s very disappointing for everyone, but no one more than me.”
Following Monday’s debacle, Devonshire promised wholesale changes to United’s line-up for Saturday’s (tomorrow’s) home clash with Billericay, also hinting that some players may have already blown their chances of a place in May’s county cup final.
He said: “I’m finding out about players at the moment and I found out more on Monday than I did in the previous four or five games.
“It will be an experimental side on Saturday, but I expect them all to give it their best shot. That’s all I can ask of them.
“We have to bounce back from Monday’s defeat but it’s going to be tough. Billericay are a top side.”
Despite winning only twice in their last six games, the Essex side are indeed riding high in the league and have only lost five games away from home all season.
But if United are to prosper in next season’s league campaign, Billericay are just the sort of team Maidenhead need to beat.
However, once again, Devonshire raised the issue of cash, claiming clubs like United always faced an up-hill slog with such limited resources.
He said: “To be fair to the lads, the Chesham players are paid a load of dough. They are one of the big six clubs and if you look at the league, the people with the least money are at the bottom.
“We had to get there through hard work and organisation and that’s what we have to do again next season.
“I know what we need to do. I’m experimenting with the side at the moment and it’s more about performances than results.”