Chatters Back In Action!


DEVA CHAT FC start the new IFA league campaign in bouyant mood ahead of tomorrow's trip to Rochdale.

The Chatters have endured a one month pre-season regime led by new fitness coaching team Nathan Spence and Alan Hitchin, and head to Greater Manchester in fine shape.

Joint-manager Nathan Auty said: 'We've had a successful pre-season build up, although devoid of any matches. The lads are in shape and kicking their heels, and we can't wait for the season to start.

'Rochdale will be a tough game, having lost to them at the Merseyside Tournament towards the end of last season but we're confident we can go there and get a result to start the season positively.'

Management trio Auty, Mark Ephgrave and Phill Lambe welcome back captain Robbie Cartwright and Dom Rae into the fold following their return from a European training camp, whilst a number of trialists have impressed over the summer.

Auty added: 'The two or three trialists we took on during pre-season have settled in well, on and off the pitch, and it will be interesting to see them in competitive action. I have confidence in their ability and they bring an extra dimension to the side both at the back and going forward.'

Auty would not be drawn into naming his preferred line-up for tomorrow's clash at Heywood Sports Centre. He said: 'We'll be taking a 13-man squad there, and each outfield player has just as much chance of starting the game than the other. Our strength in depth will stand us in good stead throughout the season.'

The game is scheduled to kick off at 10.30am, prior to Chester City's clash at Spotland later in the day.

Deva Chat FC (from): Auty, Cartwright J, Cartwright R, Darlington, Ephgrave, Hitchin, Hughes, Mace, Mills, Mort, Rae, Sharman, Wall.