NELSON boss John Bailey is hoping the new strike partnership of Carl Howarth and Dave Gray will make a big impact.

Gray has joined after a trial at Accrington while Howarth is staying despite going to University in Manchester.

After challenging for promotion for the last couple of seasons, last time out they finished a disappointing ninth.

"This season we just want to have a good start and we will see where it takes us," said the boss.

The started off in a blaze of glory last term with five wins in their first six games.

However the loss of star striker Kiko Rodriguez who took himself and a couple of other players to Burnley United hit the club hard.

Striker Jonathan Irvine also left to join rivals Colne.

One win in 13 saw them slump down the table but did rally late on - thanks to striker Carl Howarth's return from the UniBond League.

Boss John Bailey though will expect them to be up there challenging again this season.

IN: David Gray (ex-Rossendale), Damian Moran (Rossendale), Glen Little, Martin Horsfield (Gt Harwood)

OUTS: Mark Canning , Micky Bartholomew (both Castleton Gabriels), Keiron Roberts (Barnoldswick)

LAST SEASON: 9th in Div Two

MAN TO WATCH: Striker Dave Gray