AFC Fylde midfielder RICHIE BAKER is hoping for a solid start to the National North season when it kicks off on August 8^th. The Coasters face Solihull Moors away from home, and Baker is looking to cement his place in the starting eleven for the season opener. He spoke to JACK CONNOR after the 1-1 away draw at Nantwich Town and gave his thoughts.

Fylde have made a strong start to pre-season so far. How did you think you played today?

I thought I’ve done alright today although the pitch didn’t really help us. We had to adjust our game today to play a bit longer instead of the short passing game we like to play. We made a few mistakes early on but recovered to make sure we didn’t lose the game.

You personally had two really good chances in the game to score and you also hit the bar with a free-kick. Is it frustrating that you can’t seem to score but you aren’t doing much wrong?

It’s the longest drought I’ve had without scoring since I’ve been at Fylde so I’m hoping to put it right as soon as possible. I’m fine with getting in the right positions but I haven’t been as good with putting the chances away as I should have been. I should have done better but that will come with more minutes and once the start of the season comes I’m sure I’ll score.

How are you getting to know the new signings, and are you fully settled in at Fylde now after arriving in March?

It’s been good so far and I’m hoping for more of the same really. I knew a couple of lads before I started and everybody gets on really well so it’s all good. The new lads have settled well and it’s a matter of playing a few more minutes. We’ll be alright come the start of the season.

What are you doing extra for yourself to make sure that you are in the starting line-up for the first game of the new season?

Anything away from football really. Going to the gym and keeping myself fit is something I’ve had more time to do recently. I’m usually known for being quite fit and I’m working my way back up to that now and I’m nearly there.

We have Bolton Wanderers next up at Kellamergh Park, are you looking forward to facing a team of higher opposition again?

The pitch will certainly help us a bit more playing at home because we’re used to it and we can pass it around. If we’re playing on a good pitch that’s been looked after well then we’ll do well.

The next pre-season game at home is on Wednesday July 29^th against Bolton Wanderers at Kellamergh Park. Kick-off is 7.30pm, with tickets priced at £8 adults, £5 concessions and free to all U16’s.