Boss out to boost cup options

Chris Willcock

MANAGER Chris Willcock is trying to increase Mossley’s fire power in time for the start of their FA Cup campaign at Cammell Laird tomorrow.

The Lilywhites have struggled for goals in the early part of the season following the departures of Mike Fish, Lee Blackshaw and Nathan Neequaye.

“We have lost three players who scored a total of 44 goals for us last season and it is a big gap to fill,” said Willcock.

“I am actively looking to strengthen in the wide areas and as an attacking force.”

Willcock admitted the cup draw could have been kinder to Mossley, whose preliminary-round tie takes them to the Wirral to play opponents from UniBond League, first division south.

The Mossley manager, who made a scouting check in Cammell Laird’s recent game against Mickleover Sports, said: “It is going to be a really tough fixture, though they are having an up-and-down season, very much like ourselves.

“We have to be strong, show good character and match fire with fire.

“If we can defend like we did at AFC Fylde in midweek and add some quality to the forward areas before Saturday, who knows what might happen?”

OLDHAM Town are in Staffordshire tomorrow to play Norton United in the first division of the Vodkat North-West Counties League.

Manager Tony Mills has re-evaluated his team’s targets for the season after their early fixtures.

He said: “We have lost nine players from last season’s squad including Lee and Dave Neville, James Curley, Matt Landregan, Jake Cottrell and James Curley, who have all gone to play at a higher level.

“When you look take that into account, I think it is unrealistic to think we can challenge for promotion as I thought we might do after a decent pre-season.

“It will be a season of transition, though I still think we will win more games than we will lose.

“In view of what has happened, I would be happy with a mid-table finish.”

CHADDERTON have no first-team fixture tomorrow, but their reserves are in action at home to Glossop North End.