Prospects are bright for Town

AFTER two near misses in pursuit of promotion, Oldham Town will be hoping it is a case of third time lucky as they prepare for their Vodkat North-West Counties, first division campaign.

Town, who kick off their league programme at Holker Old Boys tomorrow, are among the favourites for promotion and manager Tony Mills believes his side is well equipped to challenge.

It is a great achievement for Town to be able to mix it with the top teams, some of whom have sizeable budgets.

Mills said: “A number of clubs have told me they find it hard to believe we don’t pay anybody, not even expenses.”

Mills believes teams are playing for one promotion place as AFC Liverpool, a new club formed by fans who cannot afford to watch the Anfield club, are expected to romp away with the title as FC United did a few years ago.

Mills sees Stone Dominoes, Bootle, Wigan Robin Park, Irlam Town and his own side as the teams most likely to be pushing for promotion.

He has managed to keep hold of last season’s squad and even been able to strengthen it as Matt Landregan and Lee Neville have returned to the Whitebank Stadium.

The pair were at Chadderton last term but had been working out at Hyde United until recently.

Mills said: “We have looked strong pre-season and I am pleased with the way things are taking shape.

“We were unbeaten at home last season, a fantastic achievement, and if we can do the same this time I am sure we will be there or thereabouts.”