THERE is renewed optimism at Great Harwood Town following showdown talks earlier this week.

Manager Denis Underwood and his assistant Andy Clarkson held a clear-the-air meeting with the players on Monday as the Showground club plots its escape from the foot of NWCL Division One. And a win in their 'six-pointer' clash against fellow strugglers Cheadle Town tomorrow would do nicely.

Clarkson said: "The meeting was very useful for us and all the lads turned up. They know there has to be a big improvement or we will make changes. But their attitude is positive and we're all fired up for the game against Cheadle which is vital that we win."

The club will be looking to bring in new faces in the next couple of weeks to bolster their fight against relegation.

Ironically, Great Harwood have a clean bill of health this weekend where players will be fighting for shirts for the first time this season. Clarkson added: "We are in a mess and it is our responsibility to get out of it. But this has to be the first time we have been able to choose from a full squad."

And Harwood will strive to pick up more points when they make the trip to Abbey Hey on Tuesday, who themselves are in a bad run of form. Showground's showdown talks