BAY GET SET TO KICK-OFF PRE-SEASON PROGRAMME
Colwyn Bay FC begin their pre-season programme tomorrow (Saturday 3rd July) against current Welsh Cup holders, Bangor City, with an earlier than usual 12.30pm kick-off at Llanelian Road.

Colwyn Bay manager Dave Challinor, who takes charge of the team for the first time since his appointment, outlined his plans for pre-season:

“I am really looking forward to our first pre-season game. We've had 5 training sessions together so far and the attitude of the lads has been spot on.”

“It is usually difficult getting sessions and numbers sorted out at this time of the year due to holidays etc but the attendance numbers at training has been really good. Most of the lads have returned in really good shape and we've also got some familiar faces back in who will play a part in the game tomorrow.”

“You can take what you want out of pre-season. For me, it's an opportunity for all to show what they can do. I'm not too concerned about results as there will be a lot of chopping and changing to look at different players and systems in moving forward. Although, winning football matches is a fantastic habit to get into and as individuals both Colin and I expect the players to have pride in their performances, play at a high tempo, be professional in their attitude and ultimately enjoy getting on the ball and playing.”

“We've told everyone the situation that this season is a clean slate, what has happened before is history and that all will be given an equal opportunity through games and training to stake their claim for a place in our squad for this coming season.”

Although understandably at this stage not giving many names away the Bay boss also gave an encouraging update on the progress being made on squad building so far:

“I've learned already from my short time involved that management, especially during pre season it is a case of being patient, touching base with lots of players and seeing how things progress during what is ultimately a 7 week run of games before the big kick-off. But, the squad is coming together nicely and I’m hopeful of a few more additions by the end of the weekend or certainly early next week.”

“Enjoy the game tomorrow, I hopefully will, in what is a brand new experience for myself and the start of a new beginning as we build to a successful 1st season in the Evostick Premier Division.”

A number of players are expected to be given a run out tomorrow as Challinor begins to assess the make-up of his squad for the forthcoming season.

Assistant Manager Colin Woodthorpe, unfortunately, won’t be present in the dugout tomorrow due to a previously arranged wedding commitment.

Bangor City managed by Nev Powell will no doubt prove to be tough first opposition as they prepare for a European fixture against Finnish opponents Honk Espoo in a few weeks time.

Other news…The arranged friendly away to Witton Albion on 27th July has now put back a few days to Thursday 29th July (KO 7.30pm).