Eccleshill UNITED began their pre-season early and Saturday’s home clash with nearest neighbours Thackley (2pm) will be their third run-out.

The Eagles have lost both of their previous warm-up games and have conceded three goals in each.

But they will be hoping the derby factor is a leveller as they take on the Dennyboys, who play their football a division higher in the Baris Northern Counties East League set-up.

It will be the first outing for THACKLEY this pre-season and their first under new manager Vince Brockie, who took over from Dave Morgan during the close season.

Morgan, whose two sons were key players for Thackley last term, had to relinquish his role due to work commitments.

FARSLEY also begin their friendly fixtures tomorrow when they travel to Hemsworth MW for a traditional 3pm kick-off.

Manager Neil Parsley has been busy strengthening his squad since they won promotion to Evo-Stik League Division One North by landing the NCE League Premier Division title last April.

LIVERSEDGE have their opening game as well when they travel to Northallerton Town, with all the proceeds from the clash going to charity.

BRIGHOUSE TOWN are another club coming out of hibernation but they start with an in-house game as new boss Mick Couzens wants a close look at all the players he has inherited plus some new signings and a smattering of trialists.

Silsden, like Eccleshill, were back in action early and also face their third pre-season game this weekend.

The Cobbydalers began with a win over a young Oldham Athletic side a week ago and followed up against a Bantams XI on Wednesday.

Saturday will be a test of a different kind as they head to Knaresborough Town.

Silsden boss Chris Reape said: “Wednesday (City’s visit) was the showcase, the one all the lads have been talking about, and there has been a bit of a buzz around the club.

“But pre-season is all about getting miles in the tank and match sharpness, which is why we have planned it the way we have.”