The Holy Blues will be looking to ramp up their preparations ahead of a new Pitching In Northern Premier League campaign, that promises to be new and exciting, with seven new sides entering the division. Along with Quorn who switched places with Rushall Olympic, relegated duo Alfreton Town & Curzon Ashton drop into the division, whilst Redcar, Avro, Bury & Emley all came up from Step 4. Champions Hebburn & Play-Off Winners Hednesford Town were promoted to Step 2, whilst we lost Prescot Cables, Morpeth Town & Stocksbridge Park Steels (along with Widnes, who failed to start the season).

Russ Wilcox’s men finished the last campaign in seventh. A position that this time round would see the Holy Blues in one of the extended play-off spots. This season, there is even more to play for, right down to the final day. Once again, top will be promoted as Champions, but then second down to seventh will be involved in a Play-Off eliminator extraordinaire!

Frickley, who finished fifteenth last season, in the NCEL Premier Division are managed by Martyn Woolford – and are sure to provide Russ Wilcox’s squad with a good opening test, in what is expected to be an incredibly warm afternoon. Last season, Woolford’s side won twelve and drew six of their 38 league games, ending the season with a minus 30 goal difference. It was goal difference that separated them from Rossington Main, one place higher.

It will be a first look at new signings Callum Hawkins, Elliot Whitehouse & Connor Brown for the Gainsborough faithful making the trip to Frickley – and a first outing for the stunning, new aqua-vibes, pre-season kit, that will double up as a third shirt, for the Holy Blues this season.

Other than Frank Mulhern, who left early last week to pursue his playing opportunity in Australia, the Trinity boss is hopeful of getting minutes into the legs of all of his squad members, whilst also casting his eye over a select group of trialists & hopefuls from the U21s side.

Entry & Admission has been confirmed for the 2pm kick off. Please note the earlier than advised time. Prices on the gate are £5 adults, £3 concessions & U16s, £1 Frickley have also confirmed that dogs are allowed, on a lead - so why not get yourselves along & back Russ and the boys. It might only be pre-season... but it is that time, when fresh hope springs eternal.

Address: Westfield Lane, South Elmsall, Pontefract, WF9 2EQ

Ground Clean Up

Back at the Kal Group Stadium, we have Day 2 of the ground clean up, where volunteers are encouraged to come along from 9 in the morning, to help get the Northolme in tip top condition for the start of the season - normally from 9-12... there's still the potential to get across to Frickley for the game, if you can!

Replica Shirts for 26/27

Brexons Workwear, our primary shirt sponsor have completed building our brand new club shop website - and the site is now live, with the chance to pre-order your shirts for the new season, with delivery hopefully within a week!

Online, there are options to have your merchandise shipped direct to your door, delivered to the Club Shop for the next home game, or you can pop in and see them in the shop yourself. Options for everyone, near and far!

Words: Rob Hughes (@AATM_Media)
Image courtesy of Frickley Athletic