WE could not have had a much tougher start to our campaign than taking on two of the fancied sides for promotion from our division. On Saturday we travel to Stalybridge and next Tuesday night we take on big spenders Leigh at home.

Their are likely to be no fewer than six debutants in our side for Saturday and clearly it will take time for them all to settle. However, the players are looking forward to the challenge that lies ahead and I am pleased to have been able to create a healthy competition for places that should keep everybody in the squad on their toes. To be honest, I don't yet consider the squad to be at full strength and their will be more comings and goings as the season gets underway.

Phil Horner, Kenny Mayers and Kevin Barnes have been outstanding in the pre-season games and I am sure the latter will be keen to prove Blackpool were wrong to let him go at the end of last season. I honestly believe we may find it hard to keep hold of Kevin as the scouts are already knocking at the door.

We have all been encouraged by the performance of some of our youngsters in the friendly games and, If they continue to progress, they will get their chance in the first team, sooner rather than later.

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