IT’S been a very busy past week for Barnoldswick Town as they look to build a strong squad ahead of the competitive season starting on July 29.
On Monday it was revealed that Barlick’s campaign gets underway with a trip to Lower Breck in the NWCFL, and it will give manager Andy Harrison the chance to cast his eye over several new additions.
So far the Town boss has recruited eight new players to his squad, while the same number of players have been retained.
Names included in that list are last year’s Manager’s Player of the Season Jack Foster, Paul Dugdale, Ben Ashton, Alex Moloney, Macca Smith, Gareth Hill, Brad Ditch and Brad Knox.
In addition to that, some eye-catching acquisitions have been made in a bid to accomplish a far stronger position in the league’s final standings next season, as Barlick limped to a 19th place finish last time out.
Harrison’s first man through the door was Luke Stowe - a midfielder who has made his name for being nimble, sharp and magic with the ball at his feet – with that being something Barnoldswick missed in 2022-23.
Harrison said: “There was quite a bit lacking from last season, but one of the standout things for me was that we lacked some extra creativity and quality on the ball.
“Luke brings both of those attributes to his game and I’m sure he will become a fans’ favourite very quickly.”
Callum Jakovlevs, a standout goalkeeper from the NWCFL Premier Division, has also been acquired by Harrison.
Next through the door was midfielder Ryan Moore, who was then later joined at the club by Brad Carsley on Tuesday afternoon.
Harrison said: “We were really keen to add leaders and winners into the group, and Brad fits this no question. With it, he brings great physicality and quality, and gives us an extra dynamic going forward.”
The fifth player to arrive at the Silentnight Stadium in the last few days was Tom Dean.
Dean’s physical prowess was something that influenced Harrison’s decision to capture the defender.
He said: “As a team, we know we can score goals, but conceding them has been a huge problem, particularly last season. Deano will give us organisation, leadership, a huge physical presence in both boxes and much more. We are delighted to have him on board.”
Town then confirmed the addition of a man who has shone in the NWCFL in recent years in Brandon Barski.
Harrison said: “I'm sure there's not much of an intro needed for Brandon. He's been a top, top player in this division for years. The way he reads the game, the way he leads and his experiences make him a huge signing for us.”
The 7th and 8th editions to Barlick’s first team were Callum Sandle and Matthew Argent-Barnes respectively; the latter being a fast and tricky winger.
Harrison’s side will have a very bust August to contest with, so any further additions may benefit the squad ahead of a jam-packed schedule.
After they have travelled to Lower Breck on July 29, Barnoldswick host their first league fixture at the Silentnight Stadium on Tuesday August 1 when Chadderton visit.
They then travel to Ramsbottom United on Tuesday August 8, before hosting Pilkington on Saturday August 12.
Kendal Town visit on August 15 ahead of Barlick’s trip to Squires Gate on August 22.
Harrison’s men travel to Irlam on August 26, before his side finish the month off with a home game against Wythenshawe on Monday August 28.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here