HELSTON Athletic captain Jamie Thomson says the Blues’ stuttering start to their league campaign may have unwittingly helped bring the team closer together.

Last season Thomson captained the side to within a game of Senior Cup glory and a runners up spot in division one west.

But despite being hotly tipped to take the title at a canter this time around, early results were poor, and Thomson believes Helston have only recently come to terms with last season’s disappointments.

“We didn’t win the league or cup, but last season was still a huge success and when you’re used to winning losing doesn’t come easy.

“I think after the start we had, a lot of people’s first response was to try and look for individual reasons why. But after losing a few games I think as a team we’ve come to understand that it doesn’t matter if one person made a mistake. It’s more a psychological test now, and the way we’ve responded recently is testament to our character.”

It’s hard to disagree. After a dismal September Helston have come roaring back, and following victory at the weekend the Blues sit fourth in the table, nine points behind leaders Mousehole.

What has pleased Thomson as much as recent results has been the way his team mates have responded when things were going against them - but he stresses, it’s not always been that way.

“We haven’t lost anything in terms of ability, but maybe sometimes in the past our attitude wasn’t right. It was hard for a few weeks being captain because rather than giving my opinion, I was acting as a peacemaker when players were arguing.

"But we’re such a close group. We had a bit of a sit down and a chat and Sid [Taylor] and Richie [Full] have both said they want us to get back to enjoying our football, like we were last season. I think you’re seeing that now. We’re a lot happier on the pitch.”

Not so Vospers Oak Villa, who were trounced 6-2 at Kellaway Park on Saturday - a result which puts Helston right back in the title mix.

“In spells we’re playing the best football we ever have,” said Thomson, “and honestly, I’d be disappointed if we didn’t win the league. Credit to Mousehole who are doing well, but it’s where you are at the end of the season that counts.”