Carlisle City make their bow in the Northern League’s First Division intent on keeping their home form going.
Last season’s Division Two champions start at Gillford Park against Sunderland RCA who finished mid-table in the top flight.
City manager Jim Nichols said: “They have some experienced players who have been around the Northern League for a good few years and I think they will be fancying their chances.
“But we have a great home record and have only lost three times in three years, so we want to maintain that.
“We have a really tough start with matches in the first month against three of the likely leading sides, two of them away.
“It’s important we start well and a win would set us up for a trip to Thornaby in mid-week.”
Nichols will have a big squad to pick from even though he will be missing Sam Atkinson, who is best man for brother Jim (Workington’s goalkeeper) at his wedding.
It’s also looking unlikely that new signing Robbie Ivison will receive international clearance in time to play.
Although signed a fortnight ago, the former Gretna and Queen of the South winger still hasn’t received international clearance to play.
City have also lost last season’s top goal-scorer Jordan Palmer whose 33 goals helped the Gillford Park side to the Division Two title.
“Obviously we are disappointed to lose a player like Jordan but we never stand in the way of lads who have the chance to move up the football pyramid.
“We wish him well at Workington and I believe he has the ability to step up to that level,” said Nichols.
