The Vics Column - by Peter Tonge.

WELL, we're midway through August and still no news on when football at our level will restart in-front of spectators.

This makes preparation for the new season incredibly difficult when there’s a possible FA Cup match due on 1 September which no-one knows whether it will take place or not.

But we have have to be prepared for every eventuality and our pre-season fixtures and training are doing just that.

The squad is looking more settled game by game, and already it looks like there will great competition for places in the team with new signings pushing the returning players from last season for their places. Two of those new players are right back Matt Cook and midfielder Dave Sherlock.

Matt has looked impressive so far and told me that he is enjoying his start at Vics.

Matt Cook said: “I played last season at West Didsbury and before that I have had spells at Abbey Hey and Winsford in the NWC.

"My aims for this season as a team is obviously winning the League or at least Promotion, and I m sure we have a good enough squad to do that here. We have been back training for a month or two now, so its been good for me to get to know the lads and staff before the season starts.

"Since coming to Vics, it’s been really good, we have a good set of lads, the training has been enjoyable but tough and I can see that the fans are brilliant as some of them have been coming down to watch us train.

"I’m now looking forward to getting into the competitive games which is what we all want to be doing and hopefully the fans will be allowed back soon which will be even better.”

Meanwhile, Dave Sherlock added: “I have been at Colls ( Atherton Collieries) for last four years with great success winning two league championships and a league cup title. Before that I have been at Radcliffe and Ashton United amongst others.

"It’s been a great start at Vics, preparation, even despite Covid has been good with initially small group sessions tailor made to suit the players at different suitable locations.

"However at the first group session as a collective in Northwich, I was blown away by the number of fans observing in small groups whilst maintaining social distancing.

"The pre-season sessions have been tough which is great for the legs, and we've had continuous feedback re fitness throughout, via data from the pods.

"Pre-season matches have been about fitness but with that important competitive edge to take with us into the season starting ( hopefully) with an important FA Cup match in a couple of weeks.

"Throughout my non-league time, and especially over the last few seasons, I have experienced winning League and Cup titles.

"Playing in big games in front of big crowds at the business end of the season is what football is all about and that is why I've come to Northwich Vics. All I can see from the season ahead is success.

"I can’t wait to see the fans back inside the grounds. I've heard from the management team here at Vics, and current and ex players, of how involved the fans are, so hopefully we can deliver and give them something to sing about."