THE more through the gate - the more money for players! That's the simple logic that faces Bury FC boss Andy Preece.

Preece is desperate to bring in some new faces as the newly-relegated Shakers prepare for life in the Nationwide League's basement division.

But the harsh reality of life following a three-month period of administration is such that the directors have had to put a block on any incoming personnel.

As it stands now, even the wages of loan players would have to be paid by the clubs that hold their registrations, until the financial situation at Gigg Lane takes a turn for the better.

The board, and Preece, are hoping two big, Gigg Lane friendly matches - against Premiership new boys Manchester City on July 31 and former boss Stan Ternent's Burnley on August 3, will bring enough paying customers in to allow Shakers to bolster their paper-thin squad.

The board have also said that once the new campaign gets under way, the proceeds from any home gates over 3,000 will be put into a Fighting Fund to be used solely for the manager's wheeling and dealing.

While it is understandable that the club can't be allowed to overstretch itself while debts still have to be repaid, the 'jam tomorrow' decree leaves Preece in an unenviable Catch 22 situation.

"If we could bring in a couple of players I'm sure we could make a great start to the season and that, in turn, means we could be involved in an early Sky TV game," he said.

"That would net us about £60,000. Then there's always the chance of a decent cup run if the team is playing well.

"But if the money isn't there what can we do?"

Preece was hoping Paddy Kenny's loan move to Sheffield United might give him a bit of leeway to bring someone in, but his terse "no comment" when questioned failed to mask his growing anger and frustration.

"I know the players I want to bring in and I'm sure they'd make a massive difference and be just what we need at this time.

"One or two new faces would give everyone, including the fans, a big, big lift.

"We desperately need two big crowds for the Manchester City and Burnley matches and I urge everyone to try and get down for the both of them."

Preece takes his first team squad to Chorley tomorrow (3pm) for the first of several pre-season friendlies.

Only David Borley (hernia) and Paul O'Shaughnessy (bug) are likely to be missing against the UniBond League outfit.

The Magpies haven't looked back since new manager Mark Molyneux moved to Victory Park from Trafford at the end of last season.

In the final nine games in charge, goalkeeper Molyneux, led them to eight victories and they are one of the favourites to win the UniBond League Division One.

"It should be a good test for us," added Preece. "But you can win every pre-season match and still have a bad start once the season begins in earnest.

"For me, pre-season matches are about fitness, but like everyone else I want to win every game, it's a good habit to get into.

"If we can't win we'll be looking for some 0-0 draws because I'm looking for us to be a lot tighter at the back."

ENTRY to the Chorley game tomorrow is £3 for adults and £1 for concessions. Kick-off is 3pm.

TICKETS for the Manchester City game on Wednesday, July 31 are on sale at the club priced £10 adults and £5 concessions.

They can be bought from the commercial office and main reception during normal office hours.

Credit card purchasers (VISA/Mastercard or Switch) should ring 0161-705 2144 or 0161-764 4881.

A £1 administration fee will be added to these sales plus a further 50p should you wish your ticket to be mailed to your home.

WEBSITE manager Gordon Sorfleet has organised another fundraising auction on the club's internet site.

Yesterday morning another 135 lots, mostly programmes, were put on the site with two 'experience lots' also up for grabs.

There's the chance to be Robbie the Bobby for the pre-season game against Burnley and a chance to join Gordon in the Gigg Lane press box.

LONDON-based Bury fan Craig Lord is interested in forming a Southern Supporters Club.

Craig has a few ideas for the proposed organisation including joint travel, fundraising ideas, and booking a regular night in a bar or club where Shakers home matches could be watched on video.

Craig can be contacted by e-mail on lordclord@aol.com