Cook’s recipe for success

NON-LEAGUE FOOTBALL:

CHADDERTON’S new joint-manager Mark Cook is feeling encouraged on the eve of the new North-West Counties League First Division campaign.

Cook, who with Steve Patterson took over from Paul Buckley at the end of last season, has overseen a pre-season of promise and decent results, the highlight of which was a 5-3 home thumping of Evo-Stik League neighbours Mossley.

Now, with the league opener at new side Hanley Town just days away, Cook is hoping his team will fulfil at least some of its undoubted potential.

He said: “We’re quietly confident. I told Steve I wouldn’t have joined Chadderton if I didn’t think we could achieve something this season.

“I watched a few games towards the end of last season and there are quite a few good lads in the squad. We’re going to keep our feet on the ground, but Steve and I are confident that we’re going to have a good season.”

Two individuals have been singled out for particular praise follow impressive friendly performances.

Lightning-fast striker Niall Sultan continues to strike fear into opposition defences, while Matt Russell has been in the goals again – he bagged three in the victory over Mossley, his former club.