STEETON boss Roy Mason says he hopes being drawn five home games in the opening month of the North West Counties Football League Division One North season will see fans flock to watch his side at Marley Stadium.

“We have a few home games coming up, which is fantastic for our supporters as they have only seen one home game over the last 18 months,” he said.

“It will be great for them to enjoy watching games in our new surroundings.”

Due to the league running with only 19 teams, the Chevrons have been given a bye for the opening weekend on July 31 and will instead start their campaign with a short trip to Nelson, who they beat 3-0 in their only league match at home last season, on August 3.

They will then face home ties against league newcomers South Liverpool and local rivals Golcar on August 7 and August 14 respectively, before an away match against Bacup on August 18.

A trio of home matches against St Helens (August 21), Blackpool (August 28) and Campion (August 30) round off the month.

Despite a “tough start” and a jam-packed fixture list, Mason is confident that his side can pick up points.

He said: “For obvious reasons, the Golcar and Campion games are the ones that stand out as they are local derbies against clubs we know really well.

“It’s a bit disappointing that we have no fixture on July 31, but it will mean that the lads are fresh and well-prepared for when we make the short trip to Nelson”.

Steeton are next in action at Marley tonight in a pre-season friendly against Thackley (7.45pm kick-off), in what will be their first home match this year.