Boldon CA boss looking forward to Rangers test after good pre-season

Boldon CA manager David Crumbie is hoping to reap the benefits of an impressive pre-season – starting with a win at Gateshead Leam Rangers tonight.

A defeat to a young South Shields side proved to be the only black spot in Boldon’s five friendly fixtures and Crumbie’s side also plundered their way to 16 goals in picking up five wins during that run.

Their first competitive fixture of the season sees Boldon make the short trip to Leam Rangers and Crumbie could hand debuts to summer signings Stephen Ramsey, Daniel Wright, Tom West and Aaron Williams.

The Boldon boss admitted that the visit to Hilltop Playing Field would not his fixture of choice for the first day of the new season – but is looking forward to the challenge that lies in wait for his side.

He said: “Going away to Leam Rangers is always a tough game and one I certainly wouldn’t have picked if I could choose.

“But we are looking forward to the game because it’s been a good pre-season and one that we have had to adapt, just as everyone else has.

“We have a big squad coming into the season and that will be needed because of a few lads picking up injuries.

“Wewanttostarttheseason with a good performance and something to build on.”

Crumbie will definitely be without striker Jack Dykes and midfielder Chris Foster is rated as doubtful.

Meanwhile, the FA Cup Extra Preliminary Round action continues tonight as Stockton Townhost Shildonin oneof the ties of the round.

The two sides occupied the top two places in the Northern

League Division One table last season before the coronavirus epidemic led to the campaign being declared null and void in March. However, after making several impressive signings over the summer, both sides are expected to compete for promotion into the Northern Premier League’s second tier once again this season.

Former Spennymoor Town midfielder Shane Henry could make his competitive debut for Stockton as they look to get their season underway with a win. And Shildon will also have a new addition after completing the permanent transfer of striker Michael Sweet from National League North club Blyth Spartans.

Elsewhere tonight, West Auckland Town will hope to build on a productive preseason when they travel to Tyneside to face Heaton Stannington.