Villa FC head coach Conor Coad says his side are looking forward to playing in front of their home supporters for the first time in the FAI National League Third Tier.

Villa got their new campaign off to an excellent start last weekend with a 5-1 away win over Newbridge Town.

Coad was pleased with the result but says there is still room for improvement after the opening game.

He admits Newbridge had chances, with Villa looking to have greater control both with and without the ball when they take on UCC.

Coad expects another different challenge against the college side, who he says have a young squad.

Villa also had five different goalscorers in their opening game, and Coad believes the competition within the squad has gone to another level.

He says the players are showing a strong commitment to training, recovery, nutrition and preparation, while there is also good depth across the squad.

Coad says the team effort cannot just come from the defenders or goalkeeper, with the players further forward also expected to contribute when Villa are without the ball.

Now attention turns to Saturday’s first home game, with UCC the visitors to Villa at 6pm.

Coad is hoping for a strong turnout, with the club having more than 60 schoolboy, schoolgirl, youth and junior teams.

He says the 6 pm Saturday kick-off was chosen to give as many people as possible within the club community the chance to attend.

Villa have also sold more than 100 season tickets, which Coad says is already beyond the target the club had originally set.

Under-16 players have also been given free season tickets for the shortened season as the club looks to build support around its new senior team.

Coad says the players are looking forward to showcasing National League football in Waterford and believes the group can provide an entertaining watch for supporters.

Villa FC host UCC at 6 pm on Saturday in their first home game in the FAI National League Third Tier.