Football: Helsby's Green Machine eager to produce the goods

Aug 13 2009 Chester Chronicle

NEWLY-PROMOTED Helsby are looking forward to kicking off their season in the West Cheshire League’s top division when they travel to Vauxhall Motors Reserves on Saturday.

The Green Machine was promoted from the second division last season after finishing as runaway champions with a massive 13 point lead at the top.

But there have been some changes to the Helsby squad that won the title so convincingly last term with a much younger feel around Helsby Community Sports Club.

Manager Gary Moore has brought in young signings Lee Gerardo and John McDonald and is targeting a mid-table finish despite a lack of experience in his squad.

He said: “We’ve lost a couple of players and we have a pretty young side now, but I think we can get a mid-table finish.

“There’s a lack of experience in our side this year but we’re always confident going into every game.”

Fellow Division One team Christleton will begin their season with a trip to Halton on Saturday.

Christleton finished in the bottom three in 2008/09 but will be hoping for an improvement in the forthcoming season after promoting former assistant Graham Vile to replace Paul Hughes as the man in charge.

Chester Nomads remain in West Cheshire Division Two this season and will begin their campaign at home to Marshalls on Saturday.

Nomads’ aim for the forthcoming season will be to consolidate in the current league after a 12th-placed finish last time around, according to new Chairman Steve Smith.

In his pre-season Chairman’s Note, Smith said: “My own view is that for a period of time we perhaps need to consolidate and get some of the basics right.

“For example, breaking down team silos, league teams training together, ensuring the selection process is clear to all and followed.”

Marshalls, the opponents for Nomads in their season opening fixture, were promoted from West Cheshire Division Three last season.