IT'S the big kick off for Congleton Town tomorrow and they certainly look up for it.

A solid undefeated pre-season has given the Bears the perfect platform to begin their Unibond Division One campaign against Ossett at home, kick off 3pm.

Boss Glyn Chamberlain has made several additions to strengthen the squad and is aiming for an improvement on last season's 12th place finish.

"We're pleased we've gone undefeated," said Treasurer Ken Mead. "We've blooded the new players and the squad looks in good shape. The team spirit here is the best it's ever been.

"In the past four years all we could do was ask Glyn to try and keep us in the division. Last year we did more than survive and Glyn wants a top six finish this time."

One man that will play a key part in Chamberlain's aspirations is striker Rod Thornley and the club was delighted to have secured his services for another season.

In his third year at the club, the 26-year-old hot shot is in electric form smashing two hat-tricks during pre-season and his partnership with Graham Dodd is crucial to the Bears.

Tuesday saw it's fruition as Congleton were 3-1 victors over NW Counties Leek CSOB at home in their final friendly.

After 15 minutes, Thornley earned his side a penalty after his path was blocked in the area and Dodd stepped up to slot it home.

Leek pulled one back on the half-hour mark but Dodd repaid the favour five minutes later with a lofted ball that Thornley chased through and headed past the advancing keeper for an interval lead.

Steve Callear increased the Bears' advantage in a scrappy second half on 65 minutes, capitalising on the keeper's error and firing home from eight yards.

That matched Saturday's 3-1 victory at Buxton with Joe Davey, Dodd and Bloor on target.

When the action begins for real tomorrow, the Bears are expecting a tough battle.

"We're expecting nothing but a close contest with Ossett," said Mead.

The Bears' first away trip of the season is at Ashton, on Monday night, kick off 7.45pm.

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