GARRY Thompson is relishing the prospect of a derby for his first official home game in charge.

The Bradford (Park Avenue) player-manager will hope to dispel the demons of his side’s opening 5-0 drubbing at Curzon Ashton, when Guiseley come to town this evening.

Avenue have undergone a summer refurb and looked to be making progress with solid performances in their final friendlies against Bradford City and Huddersfield.

Read more on Park Avenue in our in-depth feature

While Guiseley got off to a flier in a 3-0 win at home to Kings Lynn, Bradford's weekend humbling will have shown Thompson the harsh reality of life in the Vanarama National League North.

But, the former Bantams “History Maker” will be looking to channel his derby day experience as a player.

Thompson said: “I’ve played in big derbies before as a player, and I always got told and what I always say to players, is just don’t let emotions get the better of you in these occasions.

“It’s about keeping a level head and playing how we want to play. We’ll be up for it, it’s a local derby, they’re the games you want.

“It’s our first home game as well, so I’ll be looking for a performance.”

The player-manager is also hoping to count on the Horsfall faithful.

He said: “Big derbies, it’s about winning that tackle isn’t it? Getting the crowd on our side and giving them something to cheer about.

“I’m excited by where we are, I’m excited by our potential and I’m excited by where we can go to with this team.

“It’s now over to them, they have the opportunity. Now it’s about them delivering and that’s what it’s about really for us.”

Meanwhile, Alex Hurst has joined Port Vale on a two-year deal but will stay with Avenue on loan until at least January.