Big turn-out expected for ’Pool clash

CHADDERTON FC are preparing for their largest crowd of the season when AFC Liverpool visit Broadway for a Vodkat North-West Counties League division one fixture tomorrow.
Their opponents are an independent football club owned and run by Liverpool fans, who have come out in force to follow their team.

Around 200 of them descended on Rochdale Town’s ground last Saturday and with Chadderton boasting a gate of more than 100 on Monday night, manager Paul Buckley is expecting a good atmosphere.

A large turn-out would also provide a much-needed cash tonic for the local club.

Buckley said: “The players are looking forward to it and, financially, it could be a big boost for us.

“It’s ideal we’re playing Liverpool so early in the season. They are going well in the league and have attracted a good following. But if results start to go against them, then that support might drop off.

“It will be excellent experience for our young players. They will go out with nothing to lose.”


‘Focused’ Town face away trip

CONFIDENCE is high in the Oldham Town camp as they head to AFC Blackpool in division one of the Vodkat North-West Counties League tomorrow.

After a delayed start to 2008/09 campaign — their opening-day fixture was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch — they have beaten Padiham in the league and have overcome Ashton Athletic in the FA Cup.

Mills is pleased with his team’s progress so far but is wary of their hosts, who were formerly known as Blackpool Mechanics.

He said: “Blackpool had a good 2-2 draw at Congleton in the FA Cup last week (they lost the replay 4-1), but we produced a good performance against Ashton and we won in a canter.

“The players appear more focused this season and have really got the bit between their teeth.

With Tom Hughes, Stuart McGill and Leon Melia unavailable, Mills may switch from playing three at the back to a 4-4-2 system.


Mossley aim to hit back

AFTER losing in midweek, Mossley will be looking to bounce straight back at home to Warrington tomorrow.

The Lilywhites opened their UniBond League division one north account with a 2-0 win at Clitheroe, but they were given a reality check against Radcliffe Borough.

This weekend’s opponents have started promisingly. After edging out Salford City on the first day of the season, they recovered from a 3-1 deficit to draw 3-3 at Bamber Bridge on Tuesday night.