Helston Athletic boss Steve Massey says signings show intent

The Blues announced the addition of St Austell pair Jordan Dingle and Will Tinsley to their ranks on Wednesday as Helston prepare for their second attempt at winning the South West Peninsula League Premier West.

Helston were clear at the top of the table and enjoying a 24-game winning run until the season was suspended and later declared null and void amid the coronavirus pandemic.

There is no clear timeframe on when the 2020/21 season may begin, with leagues at steps five and six of the English non-league pyramid set to discuss options with the FA later this month.

READ MORE: Blues bolster squad with double signing from league rivals

But regardless of when the campaign does eventually begin, Massey is keen to make sure his side have the best possible chance of picking up right where they left off whenever they do kick that first ball.

He said: “I mentioned that in the announcement [of the signings of Dingle and Tinsley], saying that I hope it is that people look at it not just from our club but outside the club and our league that this is a real statement of intent from my football club.

“We understand the reasons by it, absolutely, but we just feel that it was a bit of an unjust and cruelly taken away chance for Helston to win their first major prize. It’s just something that all of the guys are really focused and motivated on.”

READ MORE: "I think we’re in a real special position here at Helston and I’m really looking forward to it."

He added: “It was a great opportunity that was unfortunately missed and we understand the reasons for that but if anyone thinks we’re going to be complacent and just think, ‘Oh yeah we’re OK, we’ll go and win it this year,’ no, I want to make sure that we’re going to have a great chance of lifting the title this year.”

Massey also expressed his desire to enjoy longer cup runs next season after early exits from the FA Vase and Cornwall Senior Cup last season.