NEW Brighouse boss Vill Powell insists his club will be promotion contenders in the coming season but feels there are two stand-out candidates for the title.

Powell has only just arrived at the Dual Seal Stadium and has lost four good players, three of whom – Kurt Harris, James Pollard and Luke Parkin – have joined Farsley Celtic following their promotion, but he has already done some good business by bringing in new blood.

Town just missed out on the play-offs in Evo-Stik Division One North last term and the new manager was appointed soon after the shock departure of Paul Quinn and his right-hand man Lee Ashworth.

Powell said: "The budget is a competitive one, otherwise I wouldn't be here. I came to the club with the intention and desire to take it forward.

"The budget was discussed and I'm happy that the club are doing whatever is in their means to back us on the pitch.

"But it's a realistic budget and that's the sensible way because any club cannot compromise its long-term future for short-term gain.

"Brighouse Town are a progressive club with strong ambition and, based on my level of contacts and experience, I'm sure that we will be in the mix at the end of the season."

Brighouse will be going all out to earn a place in the play-offs and they have more than an even chance.

Yet Powell thinks that Scarborough Athletic and FA Vase winners South Shields, who are new to the Evo-Stik League after promotion last term, will be favourites for the one automatic promotion place.

"Let's not beat around the bush, Scarborough are a big club," said Powell.

"They have just moved into a purpose-built stadium back in their own town, so they'll have the feel-good factor.

"It's also a club that can pull in four-figure home support when they're going well and, with thousand-plus crowds for home games, it will be a tough place to go to.

"South Shields are also a well-supported club and, given their recent success, they are another club with momentum. They will be looking to do well again this season and will be going for back-to-back promotions.

"It will make it an interesting league and we're looking forward to getting started."