SIDDAL (HOME)
Leigh Miners start there 2013 National Conference League Premier Division campaign off on Saturday afternoon with a home fixture against Siddal, Kick off 2-30pm at Twist Lane.
After a tough pre-season under strength and conditioning coach Phil Marsden all the lads are looking forward to getting back in to action and are determined to make a strong start to the season as they look to be among one the front runners in the division. With the club lifting the Conference Challenge Trophy last year they are eager for more success this year but can expect a tough challenge in the battle for the two major pieces of silverware as many predict this will be best NCL season to date with 50 clubs being involved over four divisions.
New signing Andrew Groves is likely to line up on the wing for Miners after moving across the canal from Leigh East in the off season, youngsters Ryan Monaghan and Andrew Hodson will also be pushing for places in the side after impressing during pre-season.
Coaches Allan Coleman and Paul Whitworth have the majority of last year’s squad available for selection on Saturday, Aaron Gorton being the only player not to have returned to training due to work commitments. Shaun Marsh, Sean Pendlebury and Dave Rowlands miss the game through injury but other than that Miners have plenty of players to choose from after having a high amount of numbers attending pre-season training.
Siddal will surely prove a tough test for miners this weekend with them consistently year after year being at the top end of the table and they will surely be up there again this year with the likes of Scott Caley Shaun Garrod and Emerson Newburn leading the way for the Halifax outfit.
The second team start their season with a local derby against Leigh East on Saturday, Kick off 2-30pm at Ledgard Avenue. After being promoted last season the seconds will be playing in the first division of the North West Counties League this time round.
The u18s also return to action this weekend playing in the first division of the North West Counties League, there first fixture is away against Thatto Heath Crusaders B on Sunday.
