GARRY Kimble’s reign as Great Wakering Rovers manager got off to a losing start.

Wakering, who were crowned Essex Senior League champions last term, were condemned to a 3-0 defeat by Romford in their Isthmian North season opener.

Goals from Kris Newby, Jonathan Nzengo and Roddy Lemba allowed Boro to triumph at East Thurrock United’s Rookery Hill, while Jake Gordon missed a first half penalty for Rovers.

And Kimble, who has replaced Iain O’Connell at the helm following his resignation last month, confirmed he has told his players to get fit or leave the club.

Kimble said: “It’s a frustrating start to the season.

“We conceded two goals early on even though we were on top.

“There were some positives and negatives, but I think the penalty was the turning point.

“If we had have scored the penalty, I think it would have been a different game.

“There is a lot to work with, but a lot of the players are still not fit. I have told the players that if they can’t get fit then they’re no good to me.

“I want my players to have total energy and commitment.

“Since I walked through the door, they have been committed.

“But we fell a bit short in the centre of midfield - we were non-existent there really.

“I thought Simon Thomas looked okay up front and Jason Ring played ever so well at right-back.”

Newby and Nzengo gave Romford a two-goal lead after just 10 minutes.

But Wakering were handed a glorious chance to halve the deficit when referee Tom Denaher pointed to the penalty spot.

However, Gordon sent his spot-kick over the crossbar and Lemba completed the scoring on 73 minutes.

And Kimble confirmed it will take time for the players to understand his style of play.

Kimble, who has enjoyed success in the dugout with Witham Town, added: “It’s going to be a learning curve for everybody and it’s not all going to work overnight.

“I think we have come in two or three weeks too late to get everything right, but it starts now.

“You will see a different team from now on because my team will be full of energy and we will get around the park.

“Hopefully we will be okay, but we know it’s going to be a long season.”

Great Wakering Rovers: Nolan, Ring, Hurford, Peters, Pethers, Salmon (Nash 61’), Russell (Makendi 86’), Johnson, Thomas, Dewberry, Gordon (Cleaver 72’)