ABERYSTWYTH Town are hoping to make a positive start their new league campaign when they play hosts to Carmarthen Town in the rebranded JD Cymru Premier on Friday night (7.45pm).

Matthew Bishop’s men go into the game in good heart, after a spirited 4-3 win at Cambrian and Clydach Vale in the Nathaniel MG Cup last weekend, and they will be keen to build up momentum.

Two goals from skipper Marc Williams, along with goals from new signing Luke Boundford and Mathew Jones secured a good away win at last season’s finalists.

A varied pre-season had seen the Seasiders beat Llanidloes Town and Tregaron Turfs, draw with Llantwit Major and lose their matches against Gloucester City and a Crewe Alexandra XI.

The core of last season’s squad remains, with experienced goalkeeper Terry McCormick re-signed in goal, along with defenders Wes Baynes, Steff Edwards, Ryan Wollacott and Lee Jenkins.

The additions of the returning Stuart Jones, from Bala Town, and Ben Birch, from Tividale, will further strengthen Aber’s defensive options this season.

In midfield, they will again look to the likes of Ryan Edwards, Paulo Mendes and Matthew Jones, so that Geoff Kellaway, Marc Williams, the returning Joe Phillips, plus new signings Alex Boss, from Bangor City and local lad Richie Ricketts can provide support to the forwards.

Aber’s forward line is also boosted by Rio Ahmadi, who is suspended for the first two matches, having returned from Newtown, along with new additions Luke Boundford, also from Newtown, and exciting new Portuguese player Edmilson Pedro Vaz.

Notable departures over the summer months, however, include Declan Walker, who has joined Stalybridge Celtic, and Ashley Ruane, who has signed for Bangor City.

Carmarthen had finished one place beneath Aber last season in eighth spot, and also start their league campaign on the back of a win in the Nathaniel MG Cup, beating Cwmamman United 4-1.

Their attacking options are strengthened with the arrival of Josh Bull from Cwmbran Celtic, but Liam Thomas, who netted 24 goals last season, will lead the line, with Luke Bowen a decent foil.

Midfielder Elliott Scotcher and left-back Alaric Jones have also joined the Old Gold from Haverfordwest County, along with winger Chris Jones,who had joined from Llanelli.