TOUGH AT TRAFFORD

The Evo-Stik NPL North club had a weekend full of testing Army drills

TRAFFORD boss Tom Baker expects his side to be fighting fit for the new campaign after a positive start to preseason – and a trip to an Army base.

As well as wins over Abbey Hey and Turton and a draw with National League North side Altrincham, Baker’s squad were put through their paces down in Wiltshire.

On a weekend trip to the Royal School of Artillery in Larkhill, Trafford’s squad was put through some gruelling sessions.

While the players may not have appreciated it at the time, Baker reckons he has seen enough to convince him the club can improve on last season’s eighth-place finish in the Evo-Stik NPL North.

“The trip down to the army base was a really good weekend, not only for fitness but also for team spirit,” the boss said.

“The lads were pushed physically and mentally, more than even I expected, but it can only stand them in good stead for the season ahead.

“My assistant Chris Shuker’s brother-in-law is in the Army and some of the sergeants down there are big football fans, so they helped us sort it out. Running around with the army kit on, a bag on your back and a rifle in your hands is very difficult. My sessions back home after that must have felt like a breeze!

“I had to build a new squad, so it’s been a lot different this year.”