UPBEAT manager Mark Gardiner will give five of his new signings their debuts for Northwich Vics at FA Trophy holders Kingstonian on Saturday.

Ks were the last side Vics played in a competitive game, on the last day of the Conference season at the Drill Field back in May.

However, the manager's mood is a far cry from that occasion, when his makeshift, and lethargic, side slumped to a 3-0 defeat.

"We'll have a much stronger side to play in the first game of this season than we had in the last game of last season," said Gardiner. "I really didn't know what team to pick that day, but I've already picked my side for Saturday.

"I don't think we can have much tougher than Kingstonian on the first day. Their last game was winning the FA Trophy so they will be upbeat and they have the majority of the side they had last year."

Vics' successful pre-season ended with a 2-0 win at Leek Town on Saturday. Adie Mike, impressive up front opened the scoring, and Mark Bailey grabbed the other.

This win rounded off Gardiner's plan to lead his side into the opening Conference matches with a run of victories under his belt.

He now turns his attention to the serious business of avoiding similar relegation worries which plagued last year's campaign.

Gardiner said: "We've got to beat the real teams now and win league games.

"I don't want to be pessimistic, saying we are playing to survive in the Conference because that's the wrong attitude.

"I want to get to 50 points and see where we can go from there. The sooner we can reach that target, the better."

Mike is certain to be one of Vics' new signings on parade as strikers Ian Cooke, with a recurrence of his knee problem, and Lee Poland (groin) will both miss the opening day.

A virus is also likely to sideline Wes Simpson, but experienced new defender Steve Davis is in line to take a place in the back four.

Ged Kimmins, Peter Holcroft, Stuart Laurie, Richard Norris and Gary Burke are other possible debutants, proving that Gardiner has been able to attract signings of proven ability in the summer, helped in no small part by an increased budget.

"I got a little bit of leeway," admitted Gardiner. "Myself and the chairman have had discussions and he's been pleased with some of the players I've brought down here.

"We may have a big squad to start with but you know the problems that can occur. It's better to have them now than be scouring around during the season."

Telford United, who have gone full time this season, are the visitors for Vics' first Conference match of their last season at the Drill Field on Tuesday (7.45pm).

The following Saturday, departed skipper Steve Walters could make an early return to the Drill Field when his new club Morecambe visit.

Hereford United, away, is Vics' Bank Holiday Monday fixture.

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