Newton Aycliffe travel to Barnsley this Saturday for an exciting out-of-area pre-season friendly against North East Counties outfit Athersley Recreation (2pm).
The fixture is part of a double ‘double bill’ against the Yorkshire outfit, as Aycliffe’s youth team are travelling to face Athersley’s reserves on the same day (3pm).
And in three weeks time (Saturday August 3rd) the Yorkshire side, and their reserves, will visit he North-East to complete the return fixtures.
Athersley have followed a similar path to Aycliffe in recent seasons, excelling through the lower divisions to reach the equivalent Step Nine berth as the Ebac Northern League division one.
Manager Allan Oliver said: “This friendly is something we have looked to do in recent campaigns but has never came off for various reasons.
“The opportunity to play against a side at the same level in a different area will benefit us if we progress in the FA competitions, as it allows us to gauge the standard of teams and facilities.
“The friendly also gives the new-look squad the chance to blend and get together on a social level, as I know the committee have planned a short stop-off on the way home for a drink or two.”
There are still spaces available on the coach for supporters who wish to be part of the day, and return travel costs just £10. The coach will depart Moore Lane Park at 10:30am and return at approximately 9:30pm.
Anyone who wishes to book their place on the coach, is encouraged to contact Steve Cunliffe (07872 985501) or Paul McGeary (07703 732342) to do so.