2005/06 Leigh RMI season preview

By Matt Lawton
August 11 2005

It's the dawn of yet another new era at Leigh RMI this season as RMI's management team of Andy Nelson and Stuart Humphreys begin their Conference North quest.

The duo took over earlier in the summer following the shock departure of previous manager Steve Bleasdale, who gave up the reigns at relegated RMI to join former Chester City colleague Mark Wright as assistant manager to the former England and Liverpool defender at Coca-Cola League side Peterborough United.

Despite the misery of inevitable relegation last season, both the RMI management and supporters are looking forward to the new season with a certain degree of optimism.

Whether or not it's just because it's the first game back in a lower division, there is sure to be an above average away following at the opening game against Redditch United on Saturday, whilst there has been plenty of interest in the upcoming home games against Droylsden and Stalybridge Celtic.

After RMI opened their pre-season campaign with a historic 0-0 draw against FC United of Manchester, there were concerns that RMI would struggle for goals during the course of the season.

However, fourteen goals during the pre-season campaign, including six against a Stockport County XI last Friday night, has put those fears aside, with genuine optimism now sweeping through Hilton Park, not to mention the fact that those currently turning out for RMI are doing so because they have a genuine determination to do so, with plenty of pride in the shirt, something that has been lacking far too much in the past.

With the news that RMI's new stadium, to be shared with Leigh Centurions as part of the Leigh Sports Village, is to go ahead along with a young, exciting team, there is a real buzz of anticipation ahead of the season's start.

It's sure to be yet another rollercoaster season, hold on to your hats!