FOOTBALL: Old Newton manager Colin Macrow is pleased that he doesn’t have to carry the burden of expectancy going into the new Kingsley Healthcare SIL season.

He led his side brilliantly to win the Senior Division title last term, and says that the aim is to retain the coveted trophy.

After two victories from their opening two matches, Newton entertain a Westerfield United outfit tomorrow who have yet to score a goal let alone gain a point.

“We managed to get to the finishing line under the radar last season,” said Macrow.

“And it suits me that we are not being considered one of the favourites to win the championship this time.

“If clubs are making the same mistake again then that is fine by me.”

While Felixstowe United are still smarting that they had points deducted for using an ineligible player that effectively lost them the title in 2009/10, Newton managed to escape their own scare after Lewis Broomfield was found to be playing while still under a sine die ban effected by Norfolk FA.

Now the dust has settled, Newton are rightly looked upon as worthy champions – apart from in the Felixstowe area perhaps – and Macrow has been able to re-sign most of last season’s players.

The only absentee is Martin McConnell who has moved to Stowmarket Town although keeper Gavin Sealey is unlikely to feature much as he has switched jobs and is now working on Saturdays.

“That is a blow as I thought Gavin was the best keeper in the Senior Division last season,” said Macrow. “But I have signed Gary Hammond, and he has plenty of experience and is doing well.”

Macrow will be without last season’s leading scorer in the Senior Division Adam Rickwood tomorrow as he is on a stag weekend, but Lee Bloom is back and young Tom Abbott, who celebrated his debut with a goal after his move from Stowmarket Town reserves, is available to play on the right of midfield.

“With respect to Melton St Audry’s and Ipswich Athletic we have not played the strongest teams in the division yet,” added Macrow.

“And we need to be on our game against Westerfield United as well even though they are going through a sticky patch.

“Felixstowe United look like being strong again this season while Ransomes are also looking god, and it has all the makings of being another competitive league.

“My aim is to go out and look to win every match, and to retain the championship is our goal.”

Achilles, who lead Newton on goal difference, meet Felixstowe United in an early season cruncher with the other 100 per cent team – Woodbridge Athletic – taking on Framlingham Town.