Silsden boss Chris Reape expects the same old problems with postponements in the coming season – despite extensive work on the Keighley Road ground.

The pitch has been dug up and work done on drainage as the Cobbydalers look to reduce the number of call-offs that blighted them last season.

But Reape warned: “I think we will always have trouble because of where the ground is. It just needs the river to swell and we are under water.”

The Silsden manager is looking forward to the new campaign, which is fast approaching due to the early August 4 start to the North West Counties League Premier Division.

But he recognises the work the committee continue to do to raise the resources needed to sustain the club at their current level.

“We don’t have the money that some clubs in our league have but the people here work tirelessly to bring in revenue and we have great support from the local public,” said Reape.

“The club came a long way before I got involved and I feel that in the three years I have been here there has been progress.

“The support is mounting again after a good end to last season and if we can break into the top ten of this league, then even more will come.

“We have a young side and, who knows? In a couple of years we could be challenging for the Evo-Stik League title.

“If that is the case, with a mainly home-grown team, it will be good for the club. It will help the junior teams recruit the best local talent.”