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Football: High hopes for Colwyn Bay signing

Jun 26 2008 By Tim Channon

COLWYN BAY manager Steve Pope believes his latest signing Rob Hopley from Leek Town could prove to be among his most important pre- season captures.

The Seagulls have beaten off strong competition for the versatile Winsford-based 23-year- old, who can play at the back or up front.

"He is 6ft 4ins tall, and a big, strong, powerful player who is very dangerous at set pieces – not only clearing from his own area, but also attacking the ball in the opposition’s box," said the manager.

"I can see him scoring important goals for us from set piece situations.

"Both Witton and Warrington were after him, but he is coming to us for less money because he believes in what we want to do at Colwyn Bay and wants to be a part of it."

Hopley, who was Winsford United’s top scorer before joining Leek, scored seven goals in his debut season in the Unibond Premier when he played at centre half for most of the campaign due to injuries.

He is reported to have said he would have stayed at Leek had they been in the Division One North after their relegation last season, but he felt the travelling in the southern section would be too much.

Unibond Premier club Witton Albion were particularly keen to sign him and his decision to come to Llanelian Road is another coup for Steve Pope.

His new look squad report for training on Saturday and face two intense weeks of fitness work at Llandrillo College and on the Eirias Park running track.

"The players know what to expect and it will be very tough – but no pain no gain," added the manager, who believes fitness is an essential ingredient for a successful side.

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