Rangers start countdown to FC United
Stafford Rangers boss Greg Clowes today started the countdown to Saturday's season opener by declaring the FC United of Manchester game will set a benchmark.
Stafford Rangers boss Greg Clowes today started the countdown to Saturday's season opener by declaring the FC United of Manchester game will set a benchmark.
With pre-season complete, Rangers turned all of their attentions to the big-kick off in training last night, ahead of their first match back in the Evo-Stik Northern League since 1996.
The club are hoping for, at least, a four-figure gate on Saturday due to the big support of their visitors, who were formed by Manchester United fans in protest at the Glazer's takeover.
It's hoped United will bring the best part of 1,000 supporters which, coupled with the home attendance, could push past the 2,000 mark.
Rangers are also hoping to attract a 'casual crowd' to Marston Road with Wolves and Villa playing away, AFC Telford kicking off on Saturday evening and Stoke in action on Sunday.
It could well be a packed house when the Red Rebels come to town and, on the field, Clowes insists he is glad of such a big test against last season's beaten play-off finalists.
He said: "What has made this season so much better to run at is because we have got United on the first day of the season.
"If had been Frickley or Stocksbridge at home, perhaps people would view the start of the season a little differently.
"I don't think we could have asked for a more difficult game, but I would rather face them than anybody else because we will get an indication of what this league is about.
"I do think there will be better teams than United in this division, but I expect them to up there and fighting for the title this season."