1874 NORTHWICH have confirmed that a first pre-season programme without Ian Street at the helm will include eight friendly games.

Paul Bowyer and Wayne Goodison, appointed as joint managers last month, want their side to be ready for a first fixture of a new campaign.

Like last term, when 1874 hosted Barnton, that could be an FA Cup extra preliminary round tie.

Northwich will play a single game on home turf at Barton Stadium, where they continue as tenants of Winsford United, against Glossop North End seven days before their cup bow.

A short trip to play Cheshire League neighbours Knutsford is one of six away games following a warm-up against Altrincham reserves at a neutral venue.

Trips to Atherton LR, Sandbach United, Radcliffe Borough, Mossley and New Mills complete the list.

The players are scheduled to report back for pre-season training at Moss Farm from week commencing Monday, June 5.

“That’s a short break, but we’ve made it clear an earlier return is essential,” said Goodison.

“I don’t want us to have any excuses this time around about not being fully prepared, fit and organised.”

He has revealed too that the squad will be expected to train more often once the season has started.

Friendlies (kick off times to be confirmed)

Jul 01 Altrincham res v 1874 Northwich (at a neutral venue)

Jul 08 Atherton LR v 1874 Northwich

Jul 11 Sandbach United v 1874 Northwich

Jul 15 Knutsford v 1874 Northwich

Jul 18 Radcliffe Borough v 1874 Northwich

Jul 22 Mossley v 1874 Northwich

Jul 25 New Mills v 1874 Northwich

Jul 29 1874 Northwich v Glossop North End