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Trethomas Bluebirds manager Mark Dunford has been giving his thoughts ahead of the club’s debut Cymru South season.

It has been a quietly busy offseason for the Bluebirds, who are just two sleeps away from their first-ever tier two match, away to Llantwit Major.

Dunford has made several recruitment hires in the shape of Cameron Clarke, David Vincent, Leon Thomas, Kallum Thomas, and Finley Hayman, in preparation for the new season.

Speaking to Caerphilly Observer however, Dunford explained how this project has been three years in the making: “We’ve been going about our business for the past few seasons now, recruiting players we believe are ready to perform at the top level.

“We’re a very capable side, and I’m more than happy to go into this season as understated.”

It’s sure to be a lot tougher for the Bluebirds in the second tier, who came into the 2023/24 Ardal South East season as one of the favourites, and went on to win the title losing just the two league games.

Speaking about how his side may need to adapt given the step-up in opposition, Dunford said: “We’re prepared to defend a lot more this season, as we found out last week against Cwmbran Celtic.

“We still have threats and goals going forward though, and equally scoring three away from home on the weekend demonstrated that too.

“There were times last season where we had to hang-on and defend so its not alien to us by any means. I’d say we’re well equipped.”

Asked if there were any games in particular Dunford was looking forward to ahead of the season, he said: “Personally, I look at Goytre United, a club I used to play for and have fond memories with, as an exciting fixture.

“As a club, we’re obviously looking forward to your Llanellis and Carmarthens who are such big sides. We’re not fazed by anyone and everyone is looking forward to challenging themselves as players and coaches.”

With some mixed opinions out there on how well the Bluebirds will do this season, Dunford was asked what he expects out of his side: “To keep building and improving. We’ve embedded a culture and philosophy within the team that we want to see grow.

“We’ll of course need to learn and adapt, and I’m excited to see where that takes us. We’ve got good players and we’re in a great place.”

Dunford has been preparing hard for their season opener at the ‘Megadome’ against Llantwit Major on Saturday, with kick-off expected at 2.30pm.

Ahead of the game he said: “I think on paper it has to be one of the toughest games of the season away from home.

“Major are a very well organised side who know how to get results, especially at home. We’ve trained well this week and are looking forward to the contest.”