CREWE FC boss Ian O'Reilly believes his squad is ready to challenge for promotion, this season.

The club has always stated its ambitions of playing North West Counties Football and there's the feeling that its time to turn those dreams into reality.

"We're going for promotion, no doubt about it," said O'Reilly,

"We need it now to keep progressing and we're geared up for it this season."

With several new signing over the summer to bolster the squad plus stars Danny Brazendale and Mark Blackburn staying on, the boss feels he has the right squad to join Mid Cheshire Division One's front-runners.

"We've made some good signings," he added.

"Daniel Haythorn looks a good centre-half and Rob Shaw played for Newcastle Town in midfield until injury a couple of seasons ago.

"We've also signed Gavin Day who looks a decent striker so with the likes of Martin Cauldwell, Mike Hildtich and Dave Hanson, we've now got 4 or 5 forwards fighting for two places.

"Keeping Danny and Mark here is also a massive boost for the club."

Crewe FC retained the Roger Haydock Trophy with a 3-0 victory during a reasonable pre-season.

"We not had a bad one, we've won two and lost two," continued O'Reilly

"It's what we do from Saturday onwards that counts."

Crewe kick off their season at home to Linotype on Saturday and O'Reilly is hoping for a clean encounter after his side were bullied out 4-2 in a hostile atmosphere at their place, back in March.

"It's a tough opener," he continued.

"They are a regular top six side and it was a really difficult game there."

l CREWE FC are expecting a decent crowd to see them entertain Crewe Alexandra's Academy side on Wednesday night (21st) at the Cumberland Stadium, KO 6.30pm.

"We're always delighted to play the Alex in what's become a regular fixture," concluded O'Reilly.

"A couple of years ago we saw Dean Ashton so it's good for Alex fans to see the stars of the future."