Cleator Moor Celtic are facing up to life in the West Lancashire League this coming season after relegation from the North West Counties.
The Hoops have had a mixed pre-season, culminating in a 4-3 defeat to Ulverston at the weekend in their final friendly.
Manager Brian Dawson has been talking to Cumbria Crack about prospects for the new season which gets underway on Saturday with a home game against Poulton.
He said: “Pre-season has been a bit of a mixed bag for us results-wise but it’s always tough with players away etc.
“In addition to that the inclusion of new faces means it always takes time for things to click and for them to get used to our style of play.
“We’ve brought in several new faces in Tommy Whitehead, Dan Whitehead, Ellis Short, Cam Carter and Adam Smith who have all joined us this season.
“In addition to this, after a good conversation with Danny Grainger at Reds, we have also brought in Scott Paden-Gale, Zach Martin and Louis Webster on a season long loan.
“Unfortunately we lost Jordan Little and Dan Hill to Carlisle City while Connor Hammell has been training with Reds so we need to see how that one evolves.
“I feel that we’re much better equipped this year in terms of strength in depth. Last season we were working with a first team squad of 17/18 players and this has now increased to 24 but more importantly the balance is good with us doubling up in each position.
“We’re really looking forward to the season now, wanting to tio get back into the rhythm of playing competitive games.
“Hopefully we can hit the ground running and kick start the season with three points at home to Poulton on Saturday.”
It should be a decent test for Dawson and his men as Poulton finished third in the table last season.
