DROYLSDEN FC will face a whole different fixture list in their first season back in football’s non-league pyramid after switching divisions.
The Bloods have moved to the North West Counties League Division One South as they prepare to come back after three years in hibernation.
The resignation of Ellesmere Rangers brought about the switch from the North division but it creates a series of eagerly anticipated clashes.
Abbey Hey, based just three miles away, are now in the same league, along with Manchester’s Maine Road, Stockport Georgians, Stockport Town and Cheadle Heath Nomads.
Had they stayed, they would have faced opponents from the other side of the Greater Manchester area, Lancashire, Yorkshire and the Liverpool region.
In a statement, the North West Counties League said: “Following the resignation of Ellesmere Rangers from Division One North, the NWCFL have been involved in discussions with Droylsden FC and The FA to discuss the lateral movement of Droylsden FC to our Division One South.
“All parties have confirmed their agreement and under FA Rules we are able to resolve this issue within the constitution of the NWCFL and can confirm that Droylsden will move to Division One South to fill the vacant position left by the departure of Ellesmere Rangers.
“This will give both of our Step Six Divisions a total of eighteen member teams for the 2023-24 season, which starts on July 29.
“We wish to put on record our thanks to Droylsden FC and The FA for their swift contributions to the resolution of this situation.
“Work will now commence on amending and reconstructing the fixture lists for July 29 and August, with an aim to releasing them at the earliest opportunity.”