Respect heads league agenda

JOHN GILDER FOOTBALL:

RESPECT will be high on the agenda when the D and J Builders (North-West) Ltd Oldham Sunday League season gets into full swing this weekend.

In line with the FA's respect initiative, all clubs in the league will be monitored more closely than ever in an attempt to improve discipline.

Sean Kelly has been appointed as the league's respect liaison officer and will work closely with club and league officials to help bring about an improvement in this area.

League secretary Val Broadbent said: "Discipline and respect are the two things that we will be looking to improve upon from last season and clubs and officials need to take a bit more notice of that."

Team captains will wear arm bands and there will be handshakes before the start of every match.

Newcomers to the league this season are Abbey Inn, Oldham Tigers, Junction and Famous King George.

The league will once again comprise four divisions, with a total of 39 teams competing for honours.

The reigning Premier Division champions, Chaddy End FC, will be the team to beat this season.

Stiff competition could come from the likes of High Crompton, Royton FC and Rifle Range 'A'.

Chaddy End begin their defence of the title with a visit to Limeside King George at Limeside Park on Sunday (2pm).