On the eve of the new season, We take an in-depth look at the new recruits and also review our Pre-Season campaign
Who’s new?
The Dabbers have made seven new additions to the playing squad over the summer. Both AJ Leitch-Smith and Ritchie Sutton have joined from Altrincham. With over 700 appearances between them, they both bring an abundance of football league experience to the club and we’re hoping that they can help the team both on, and off the pitch. Ritchie has also been named as the clubs assistant manager for the upcoming season following the departure of Andy Porter who has left the club. Another experienced singing is Joel Grant, the winger joins the club after spells at Plymouth Argyle, Crewe Alexandra and Wycombe Wanderers, Joel has also represented Jamaica 14 times.
The Dabbers have also bought in Louis Gray from Chester. The 26 year old Goalkeeper has previously played for Everton, Carlisle & Wrexham. There are a few familiar faces who return to the club too. Joe Robbins joins the Dabbers following an excellent loan spell last season. Joe was released by Crewe Alex in the summer and were delighted to have him on board. Joe Mwasile has also returned to The Dabbers after joining Witton Albion midway through last season. Finally, Jack Sherratt had signed for The Dabbers from Hyde United. He also brings a wealth of experience to the club following spells at Leyton Orient, Stafford Rangers and Kidsgrove Athletic.
There were a few outgoings in the summer too with Josh Langley, Matty Devine, Joe Malkin & Callum Parker all finding new clubs.
A round up of Pre-Season:
The Dabbers played 9 games overall in Pre-Season. Losing 5, winning 3 and drawing once. The losses came at the hands of mostly higher opposition, such as Crewe Alex, Curzon Ashton & Wrexham AFC. However, we were beaten by Winsford Town and Leek Town. Our wins came against a Stoke City XI where Connor Heath & Dan Cockerline both bagged a brace. We also beat Caenarforn (2-0) and Hanley Town (3-1). The Dabbers also drew 3-3 at Connah’s Quay in what was a thrilling encounter at The Deeside Stadium.
In the nine Pre-Season games, Dan Cockerline top-scored with six goals. Including some excellent strikes against Stoke City, Curzon Ashton and Wrexham. Aj Leitch-Smith, Joel Grant and Connor Heath also pitched in with 2 goals each as the Dabbers scored 15 goals in Pre-Season.
Gaffers thoughts
Dave Cooke gave his thoughts on how Pre-Season has gone for his side:
“It’s been the longest Pre-Season in the history of the Pre-Seasons. We came back early. The lads are fit, they’ve worked hard. We have had some mixed results, but I’m not really looking into that. I like to think that when we have been been hot, when have been very hot. I’m looking forward to the season and everybody is raring to go. We haven’t picked up any injuries so bring on Saturday”