CHAIRMAN Keith Sparrow says Slimbridge are struggling against the financial crisis just like any other club.

The ambitious Swans have some of the best resources and facilities in the local football scene with a ground at Southern League standard and are currently aiming for another promotion to the Hellenic Premier Division.

But Sparrow, who took over the reins from John Mack last summer, insists Slimbridge are not immune to the credit crunch.

“Every club is feeling the pinch,” he said.

“Advertising and sponsorship is more difficult to get and everyone is chasing some money.

“It is a struggle for everybody, we are not paying players.

“At this moment the situation is whatever money is around needs to be grabbed.”

After six months at the helm, Sparrow is pleased with what he has seen so far on the pitch.

James Cole’s side are currently second in Hellenic League Division One West one point behind league leaders Purton, who have two games in hand, and six points ahead of third placed Cheltenham Saracens.

“The players are playing football the way we like to see it played,” said Sparrow.

“The weather has not caused us that many problems because we played so many early in the season so we’ve got the points in the bag.

“We’re disappointed to slip behind Purton but they have got to play teams we have struggled against.

“It’s disappointing to lose the players we have lost to Cirencester and Minsterworth but we’ve found some good talent from other places.

“We’re still in three cups and I’m really pleased with the way we’ve performed against teams from higher divisions.

“I’m confident that somewhere along the line something might come our way this year.

“At the moment we’re just a little bit off the pace but we’ve got the points in the bag and other teams have got to get them.”

Slimbridge have signalled their intention to enter both the FA Cup and FA Vase this season, which Sparrow believes will boost the whole club.

The chairman also manages the under-16s side and is looking to develop the relationship between the senior and youth sections of the club.

He said: “Certainly lads in the under-16s have the potential to become Slimbridge players and that hasn’t happened in the past.

“I’m very pleased with the junior club and I would like to see more youngsters come through.”

Slimbridge have not played a game since their 1-1 draw at Tytherington Rocks on December 12.

Their game at North Leigh Reserves scheduled for today has been postponed due to the big freeze.