New Season, New Challenge as Bacup Borough Prepare for Ashton

The wait is almost over as Bacup Borough prepare to kick off the new North West Counties Football League Division One North campaign this weekend with a home fixture against Ashton Town FC at the Brian Boys Stadium.

Following a productive pre-season programme, there is a real sense of optimism around the club as supporters look forward to seeing Borough begin another exciting chapter under manager Brent Peters.

Preparations have included a demanding schedule of fixtures against Bury FC, New Mills, Atherton LR and Chadderton. While results are never the primary focus during pre-season, the games provided exactly the type of competitive tests Peters was looking for ahead of the league campaign.

Facing strong opposition has allowed the manager to assess his squad both individually and collectively, while giving new signings the opportunity to settle into the team and adapt to the demands of his playing style.

Fitness levels have steadily improved throughout the summer, combinations have begun to develop across the pitch, and Peters now believes his squad is in a strong position heading into the opening weekend.

This season also brings a fresh look to Division One North with several new clubs joining the league. Ashville, Cammell Laird, AFC Knowsley, Halewood Apollo, Flixton and Uppermill all enter the division, adding new grounds to visit and creating fresh challenges for every side.

Flixton FC - Valley Road

With plenty of unfamiliar opposition, consistency will be more important than ever, and Peters knows there will be no easy fixtures throughout the campaign.

Speaking ahead of the season opener, the Borough manager is encouraged by what he has seen over the past month.

"Pre-season has gone really well for us. We deliberately arranged challenging fixtures because we wanted to test ourselves against good opposition. The players have worked hard and it's given me the chance to have a really close look at our new signings as well as see how the squad has developed together.

"The attitude and commitment from everyone has been first class. Fitness levels are where we want them to be and there's healthy competition for places, which is exactly what you need going into a new season.

"We know the league will be competitive, especially with several new clubs joining this year. Every game will be a challenge, but if we continue to work hard, stay together and play to our strengths, I believe we'll have a very good season.

"Now it's about turning all the hard work from pre-season into performances that our supporters can enjoy. We're looking forward to getting started in front of our home fans against Ashton Town."

With a refreshed squad, new faces throughout the division and plenty of anticipation surrounding the opening weekend, the stage is set for another exciting season at Bacup Borough.

The 2026/27 campaign begins this Saturday as Borough welcome Ashton Town FC to the Brian Boys Stadium, and everyone at the club will be hoping to start the season with three points in front of the home faithful.