Cumbria’s three sides are ready to launch their Northern League campaigns this afternoon.
Penrith and Carlisle City, in particular will be looking to improve on last season’s finishing positions – 17th and 18th respectively.
Kendal Town were just outside the play-offs last time, so that’s a different kind of incentive for new manager Matt Flynn to improve the club’s position.
Jim Nichol has taken over from Workington-bound Darren Edmondson at Penrith after a year’s break.
He was previously with the club from 2015 to 2017 so he knows a lot about the club to start with.
He’s been happy with his pre-season preparations but expects a tough test in the opening game, a trip to West Auckland.
They have increased their budget and appeared to have recruited well so although hardly a season-defining game, will give Nichol a guide to what lies ahead.
On paper, Carlisle City have the toughest assignment, even though they start at home.
Shildon were last season’s runners-up who will be looking to go one better this time.
Dan Kirkup is preparing for his second season in charge but is certainly more relaxed about this one.
It was somewhat of a rushed job last time, in terms of preparation and recruitment after he had been appointed.
This has been much better and Kirkup, with new assistant Mark Skip Boyd is looking for a bold show from his side.
Kendal Town start with a home game against Newcastle Benfield and Matt Flynn, into the hot seat now after the move to Lancaster City for ex-boss Jimmy Marshall, will be keener than most to get off to a good start.
He has Niall Cowperthwaite as his number two and both could be out among the action as registered players – and key ones at that.
There have been changes in personnel but confirmation that striker Tom Kilifin was returning to Parkside Road was exactly the boost Flynn was looking for.
The North West Counties also start today and Holker Old Boys have an intriguing fixture at home to Nelson.
Holker were fourth to Nelson’s second place to make the play-offs but weren’t successful in gaining promotion.
The big question for the South Cumbrians is how well have they replaced four key players who have left during the summer.
All were trophy winners at the end-of-season presentations but Will McGladdery, Luke Ellis and Tom Dawson have all gone to Workington while Joe Aimson has joined Lancaster City.
