IT’S going to be a better season for Mossley in 2017-18. Why? Because co-managers Peter Band and Lloyd Morrison won’t countenance another campaign like last year’s when the threat of relegation hung over Seel Park until the final week.
“We simply can’t have another one like that. We really don’t want to be going into the last few games needing to win them all to survive. And we certainly can’t afford to have the situation where we win one or draw one, and then lose four, ” said Band
“This year, we need to be pushing for the top ten or higher, and I think we can do it. Lloyd and I always have a good spirit in dressing room but this time there’s a special buzz about the place. I feel we’re in a much better situation than we were four months ago.
“Take Tom Dean We’ve made him captain and he’s come on in leaps and bounds. The responsibility has really brought him forwards.
“It’s all added up to a very steady pre-season, but you get nothing for that. What matters is how we do once we kick off at Kendal.”
One of Band’s key reasons for optimism is a reorganisation of the back-room staff at Seel Park. Two new coaches — Lee Twigg and Chris Appleton — have joined Paul Marchbank. All will be working with a slimmed-down squad of around 20, which will allow more individual work with players.
Among the new players are Adam Latham (Chadderton) who can ply on either wing; Sam Gibson, a left-back, also from Chadderton; utility man Aaron Dwyer from Stockport Town and centre-half Jamie McLellan who has been playing university football in America.
Band sees striker Liam Ellis as from the same mould as himself. He describes him as hustle and bustle and prepared to run his tripe off for the cause.
Jack Tuohy is another acquisition from Chadderton. He is joined in midfield by former Hyde United player Elliot Harrison who is on loan from Halifax Town and Sam Howell who returns from Winsford United.
Oliver Martin (New Mills) and Craig Ellison (Witton Albion) will compete for the goalkeeper’s jersey.
“I think the squad is promising,” said Band. “We’ve recruited well and brought in men who are hungry for the fight. As I’ve said, we’ve got a great spirit at the club and that’s something you can’t buy, it has to come from within.
“The moment of truth will come when we play our first league match of the season. Friendlies are great to win but count for nothing.”