Eagles' early home incentive (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Eagles' early home incentive

12:33pm Thursday 7th August 2008 in Sport By Ian Whiting

The Kool Sport NCE League kicks off on Saturday and the three local sides in the top division, along with a new name in the semi-professional ranks, can begin their campaigns in earnest.

Of the established trio in the Premier Division, only ECCLESHILL UNITED have home advantage. The Eagles’ season starts with the visit of Mickleover Sports and the hosts will be hoping to attract any floating supporters.

“We have got the best of it really and we are looking forward to it,” said manager Mick Watson.

“Home on Saturday and Tuesday and then finish the week off with a derby at Cougar Park against Silsden in the FA Cup on Friday night. We have to look to win our home games and try to progress in the cup.

“Pre-season has been a bit mixed and while I would love to be able to say we have won them all, I have to underline that it is just a means to an end. It’s a time for training, building your squad and gaining match practice.”

New THACKLEY manager Billy Fox makes his competitive debut in the dugout at Brodsworth MW.

Fox has brought a number of new signings to the club and worked hard to keep the best of the players he inherited. He is now keen to test himself as well as his new squad.

LIVERSEDGE head to Dinnington Town, who won promotion last term, and manager Steve Newton will have selection problems because of injuries picked up in the pre-season campaign.

Several key players are suffering and Newton has had to find a new cornerstone to his defence, which has affected results in the friendly games.

BRIGHOUSE TOWN have stepped onto the football pyramid and their inaugural game as a semi-pro outfit is in Division One at Teversal.

Manager Mark Brier said: “We are nervous but excited. Farsley Celtic paid us a massive compliment in our final friendly by starting nine of their first team. We lost 4-0 but it was hugely beneficial to our education.”