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FC Isle of Man to face first pre-season test

Photo Credit: Gary Weightman/Vannin Photos

Manager expecting 'a huge challenge' against Brackley Town 

FC Isle of Man will face their first pre-season test this weekend ahead of the 2024/25 NWCFL Premier Division season.

The Ravens take on National League North side Brackley Town at The Bowl at 6.30pm tomorrow evening (5 July).

The Manx side's manager Paul Jones says he's been encouraged by his squad's early preparations ahead of several fixtures they'll navigate before the new league campaign is due to begin on 27 July.

After Friday evening the Island outfit will host Ashton Town of NWCFL Division 1 North next Saturday (13 July) before welcoming Lancaster City, Radcliffe FC and Chester FC for a summer festival of football at The Bowl from 19-21 July.

The following weekend FC Isle of Man's new league journey is expected to start with a home tie in the NWCFL Premier Division against Chadderton (27 July).

He says there's no denying the quality of this week's opposition but thinks it's a task his players will be looking forward to.

Mr Jones also shed light on some off-season developments, including the news that previous club captain Frank Jones will not be part of the squad for the upcoming season:

You can hear the full extended interview with Paul Jones via the Manx Radio SportsCast

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