Holden hunting a Bury bounce

Dean Holden: cracking atmosphere expected

DEAN Holden expects a raucous atmosphere at Gigg Lane this weekend as Athletic attempt to inject real momentum into the new season.

So far the opening month of league action has brought a solitary, nervy victory over Fleetwood, a draw at Walsall, stalemate at Colchester and a draw with Shrewsbury.

Now comes a real derby clash against rivals who have spent big since gaining promotion.

And Athletic’s assistant manager Holden (pictured) knows the size of challenge the visitors — financial minnows in comparison to Bury’s lavish spending — will face.

“There will be over 1,500 of our fans there, which is great, and it’s going to be a cracking atmosphere,” said Holden, who was today taking part in a ‘bush tucker’ trial to help raise money for Macmillan Cancer Support.

“They have a lot of firepower in their side and at this level, have a really good group of players.

“Peter Clarke is their leader at the back and he has plenty of experience.

“But at the same time, we have had a decent start ourselves and looking at the draws we have had, are possibly four points short of where we should be.

“I know it has been said many times but at the risk of repeating myself, this really is a very competitive division.

“Even sides who have recruited heavily like Wigan, Scunthorpe and Bradford, are finding it difficult.”

Twitter: @Matt_Chambers_