Hopes high for new season

Non-League football: IT’S all systems go for CHADDERTON and OLDHAM BORO tomorrow on the opening day of the North-West Counties League First Division season.

Both sides face new teams in the competition. Chadderton, with new joint-managers Steve Patterson and Mark Cook at the helm, travel south to Hanley Town.

Boro, with boss Tony Mills keen for a good start after finishing eighth last season, travel to 1874 Northwich.

Meanwhile, MOSSLEY, whose Evo-Stik Division One North season doesn’t start for another fortnight, welcome back a familiar face at Seel Park tomorrow when Ashton United arrive with the Willow Wood Hospice Charity Cup up for grabs.

Ashton have ex-Lilywhites boss Steve Halford in joint-charge with Paul Phillips, following his change of allegiance in June.

Mossley’s new joint-manager, Peter Band, is hoping to build on the encouraging 4-2 home win against Conference North big guns Altrincham.

“I think our fans can see we’re trying to build a good side for this season,” said Band, who is joint-boss with Lloyd Morrison. Tomorrow’s match kicks off at 3pm.