Benfield boss hopes side will hit the Mark
NEWCASTLE Benfield manager Mark Convery is wary of putting pressure on his side ahead of the Ebac Northern League Division One season.
The Sam Smith’s Park club have caught the eye with a number of key signings in pre-season including North Shields winger Dean Holmes and former Newcastle United youngster Mackenzie Heaney.
They have a full squad available as they face a tough trip to Sunderland RCAtomorrow for their season-opener - and Convery is looking forward to getting the season under way.
He said “We are looking forward to the competitive games after a tough pre-season.
“I don’t want to put too much pressure on my young team but I am interested to see how we get on against a very good Sunderland RCA side and over the course of the season”
Hebburn Town manager Scott Oliver is boosted by the return of new signings Andrew Stephenson and Dan Groves for their home game against Penrith.
The Hornets’ boss will make a late call on the availability of striker Luke Sullivan, who is recovering from sciatica.
Dunston UTS welcome back new signing Aiden Haley for their game at much-fancied West Auckland.
The former Whitley Bay midfielder missed the Cleator Cup defeat against Shildon but will be back in Chris Swailes’ squad for the game at the Wanted Stadium.
It has been a summer of change for Whitley Bay manager Andy Gowens and he could hand debuts to former Cheltenham Town defender Gavin Caines and in-form striker Jack Foalle when they entertain Seaham Red Star.
Mark Collingwood will take charge of Red Star for the first time in three years when they travel to Hillheads.
Landlords face tenants at Woodhorn Lane as Ashington host newly-promoted Blyth and fellow Division One new-boys Whickham head to Heritage Park to face Bishop Auckland.
Chris Moore takes charge of Consett for the first time when they entertain Guisborough Town and he could hand a debut to ex-Newcastle Benfield forward Luke Carr.
FA Vase finalists Stockton Town travel to Dean Street to face a much-changed Shildon side and Ryhope CW will hope to kick off their campaign with victory at Newton Aycliffe.