Bamber Bridge isn't a popular name amongst fans of Halifax Town AFC after the Lancashire club caused an FA Trophy upset in the mid 1990's, beating The Shaymen 1v0.But that's all water under the bridge at 3pm on Saturday afternoon when FC Halifax Town play their first ever competitive game as a reformed club under a new name.

The Unibond League is new territory for the club but Manager Jim Vince knows the scene well having taken charge of Witton Albion at this level.And, he has based his recruitment on finding a blend of experience and youth that can complete and hopefully succeed.

Thankfully for the Manager most of the injury concerns after the final pre season friendly at Ossett Albion have all but disappeared.The Shaymen head into the Bamber Bridge game without the services of defender Tony Barras who is waiting for the results of a scan on his injured knee and Ryan Sugden who is nursing a thigh strain but apart from these a fully fit squad is ready and raring to go.

They will face a decent Bamber Bridge team that finished 5th in this League last season, a placing that earned them a play off position.Phil Entwhistle's side won 22 out of their 40 games so this will be a good test for FC Halifax Town.Amongst the visitors' ranks is a pair of former Morecambe players whose names may be recognisable to the Shay faithful, goalkeeper Andy Banks and midfielder Ryan Zico Black.

Vince oversaw the final training session ahead of Saturday's game and he was pleased with the way his preparations have gone.

He told the official site tonight, "We've worked on shape and set pieces and its gone well. The squad is gelling together and there's a good buzz between them.

We only have Tony Barras and Ryan Sugden out injured. Tony will be going for a scan tomorrow and Ryan is making progress which is obviously pleasing.

We will be going out to get the win on Saturday and start the season on a positive note."

It's an historic day and everyone at The Shay is hoping the newly formed club commences its existence with a bang.Why not come along, kick off is 3pm.