Decision day looms for Droylsden FC trialists

CALLS will be made on the dozens of people who put themselves forward to play for the reborn Droylsden FC in the coming hours.

And owner Dave Pace admits they will be joined by more experienced signings who are used to playing non-league football.

About 140 players turned up to an open trial as the Bloods make their return to the North West Counties League Division One South after being mothballed for three years.

22 took part in an emotional first match back on Saturday, July 8 against Stretford Paddock, with goalscorer Lewis Barlow and defender Harrison Cunningham catching the eye.

Dave Pace. Image by Carl Ennis Photography

And Pace told The Correspondent he will make a final call after another 22 get their chance against Stockport Georgians on Tuesday, July 11.

He said: “We’ll have a different 22, from then we’ll have to move on and I’ll bring some of my own players in.

“I’ll have made my decision on which players stay by the end of the Stockport game.

“I’m bringing in my own players to and I’ve told them to stand by. What I’ve done first off is to give everyone a chance, everyone local an opportunity to prove themselves.

“I’ve given them that by producing two sides on Saturday and two sides against Stockport Georgians.”

Droylsden’s current batch of players comes from the best of those who turned up to the open sessions.

And do not ask Pace for guidance on how to manage 140 people at the same time.

He added: “I didn’t know to be honest but we did it and I was surprised at how smoothly it went.

“The response to the trial was massively bigger than I expected. 140, I was expected more like 40!

“22 had a game on Saturday and another 22 will have a game against Stockport. I’ll pick the ones from that and then bring in a few of a higher standard.

“Players who’ve got experience at the level.”

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