In our second Taunton Town season review, captain Brett Trowbridge reflects on the year from a player’s perspective.

BRETT Trowbridge admits he was “a little reluctant” to captain Taunton Town this season, but is relieved he agreed to take the armband.

He led the Peacocks to the FA Cup first round proper for the first time since 1982, the Southern League Division 1 South & West play-offs, and to their fifth Somerset Premier Cup win.

Trowbridge said: “This season has been a long one but absolutely amazing.

“Although we could not achieve promotion, ultimately it should not overshadow the tremendous season we have had as a whole.

“The goals, cup runs, Somerset Cup win and [11-game] winning streak we have had do not come around in one season very often, so you have to enjoy it when it does.”

It was an experience which he enjoyed even more as captain, not that he was wholly convinced about taking the role before the season began.

“I was a little reluctant in the summer when Leigh [Robinson] asked me to captain the side,” he said.

“Looking back on it I am so lucky I said yes! 

“At this level you do not get many seasons like the one we have had, and to captain the side through those times makes it even better. 

“I will remember this season for as long as I live – it’s been unbelievable.”

The season had its low points – Trowbridge mentions the three-point deduction which, come the end of the season, denied them a home playoff semi-final against Tiverton Town – but they were certainly outnumbered by the highlights.

The skipper said: “If you ask any non-league player, one of their top goals would be to play in the first round of the FA Cup, so I was over the moon to take part in it.

“[For the] Barrow away match, even though we lost, the build-up before the game and the atmosphere at the ground was such a buzz.”

And the team’s best performance of the year?

“There have been so many it is difficult to pick one. 

“A lot of the boys would say Hemel Hempstead away in the FA Cup qualifying fourth round replay, but because I was unavailable [for that one] I would go with Hereford away. 

“We won 2-1, the whole team worked their socks off for that result, and the fans were great on the day.”

Speaking of those supporters, Trowbridge has nothing but praise for the club’s 12th man.

“The relationship between the players and the Peacocks faithful is brilliant,” he said. 

“A lot of the fans travel away, which shows how dedicated they are, and on the playing side of things we really appreciate the extra support. 

“They are so passionate and get behind the team really well.”

Manager Robinson has said during the season that the squad has a winning mentality, and his captain backs that up, saying: “The squad is quite experienced at this level and above, so winning games of football is all we have tried to do.” 

He also believes they can make strides again next season, and finally gain promotion after so many near misses.

“I think we have to aim for promotion in the league, and whatever else comes with it is a bonus. 

“If Kev [Sturmey], Leigh, Rob [Dray] and Meaks [Michael Meaker] can improve the squad and keep the majority, then we have a real chance of achieving promotion.”