CHRISTLETON go into the new season full of optimism following the capture of ex-Chester City and Vauxhall Motors coach Graham Vile.
Vile joins the Division One outfit as an assistant to current manager Paul Hughes and will take charge of Christleton’s opening two games as Hughes is on holiday.
First up is a trip to Castrol Social tonight (6.30) followed by a home game against West Kirby on Wednesday (6.30pm).
The reserves begin their campaign away to Newton tonight (6.30) under the guidance of new manager Eddie Righley.
UPTON AA kick-off the new Division One season away to Maghull tomorrow (3pm) with joint manager Dave Wright eager for his side to get off to a solid start in their quest for survival.
Although Upton finished in eighth place last season and have retained the nucleus of their squad, Wright, for the time being, is looking no further than safety.
He said: “Our aim is to maintain our status in the league. We can’t wait to get the season started but Maghull is always a tough trip.”
Upton Reserves host Mersey Royal this evening (6.30pm).
In contrast, new BLACON YC boss Pete Hughes has virtually a new side to work with as he embarks on his first season as first-team manager.
Hughes makes the step up from reserve boss and takes over the reins from the retiring Paul Broadbent.
“We’re going through a transitional period,” said Hughes. “A lot of experienced players have left to join Welsh league sides.”
Hughes has to wait until Wednesday for his first competitive game in charge, against local rivals Upton (6.30pm).
New Blacon reserve team manager Mickey Price will be at the helm for tomorrow’s home clash against Southport Trinity Reserves in Division Three (3pm).
HELSBY go into the opening home fixture of the Division Two season against CHESTER NOMADS tonight (6.30) full of confidence.
Under the guidance of new first team management duo David Nethercott and Gary Moore, Helsby have enjoyed some fine pre-season form against high calibre opposition.
Club secretary John Evans said: “We beat North West Counties side St Helens Town 2-1 and only narrowly lost 2-1 to UniBond First Division North side Warrington Town who were really impressed with how we played.
“We have a good mix of youth and experience this season and I believe we can challenge for the title.”
Nomads, meanwhile, will also looking to build on last season’s mid-table finish.
ST WERBURGH’S are another side with a new look to their squad and they begin their Division Three campaign tomorrow with a tricky trip to Manor Athletic.
Saints stayed up on goal difference last season and take on a side who finished fifth.
