GARI Lewi says he is determined that his Penrhyncoch side will prove a competitive force as they prepare for their eagerly-anticipated return to the Huws Gray Cymru Alliance this weekend.

The new season starts with a tough-looking fixture away to defending champions Caernarfon Town on Saturday, but Lewis is upbeat about the challenges that lie ahead for last season’s Spar Mid Wales League division one champions.

“It’s obviously a tough start, they were the standout team last season in the Cymru Alliance, but it may be a good thing that were are playing them on the first day,” said manager Lewis.

“We will have a game plan for them, which we will work hard on in training this week, and then it will be up to the boys to perform on the day. We are going there to give it a good go.”

He added: “It’s going to be a challenge in every game this season, realistically our first aim has to be to survive, but I have every confidence.

“We are going to have to be defensively sound and solid, but at the same time I want us to express ourselves, and be confident on the ball.

“Above all, I want us to be competitive against every team we play, even if we lose. I was competitive as a player, and that’s what I want from my team, standing up to be counted.”

Penrhyn go into the opening fixture without school teacher Arron Lemon and student Aidan Nyhus, whose availability this season is in doubt because of University commitments.

They were also waiting to gain international clearance for Portuguese midfielder Florin Burcea, a new signing from Slovenian club NK Celje.

• LLANIDLOES Town boss Hugh Clarke could take plenty of positives from his side’s display after pushing Cymru Alliance neighbours Caersws all the way in the annual charity match in memory of Richard Evans.

A well taken goal from Will Thomas early in the first half proved enough to give the Bluebirds the spoils, but ex-Caersws stalwart Clarke was happy with what he saw from his charges as they prepare for the start of their Spar Mid Wales League campaign.

“It was not a bad performance at all,” he said. “What was particularly pleasing was the way we defended.

“We stuck our foot or head in when we had to, and passed it when we could. We really stuck to the task and we did not shirk against a good side.

“We have tended to do better against the better teams this summer, we focus well and show a good attitude.”

Clarke, however, is cautious about his side’s prospects this season as they prepare to get underway at home to Hay St Mary’s on Saturday, one of the sides expected to be in the title mix.

“There are some very strong teams in the league,” said Llani’s manager.

“Rhayader have come down from the Cymru Alliance, Llanrhaeadr, Carno and Knighton all did well last season, and Hay St Mary’s will be there or thereabouts, so if we can get into the top six then I will be pleased

“It is a transitional season, but we’re looking to build on last season, and then push on again the season after.

“What I’m looking for this season is good levels of fitness and to have a young, energetic and mobile team. When we’ve got everyone available, we’re going to be quite a decent side.”

Llani have struggled in midweek friendlies due to players being missing, as shown by a 3-0 loss against Abermule. Their last friendly was due to be played against Cymru Alliance side Llanfair last night (Tuesday).

Their Spar Mid Wales League division one season opens with an appetizing clash against Hay St Mary’s at Victoria Avenue on Saturday (2.30pm).