By Daniel McSkimming
The odds may be stacked against Brackley next season, but boss Jon Brady is confident his side can upset the applecart.
The bookmakers have tipped the Saints to struggle in the National League North, placing them at 66/1 to win the league – quite a fall from grace for a team that were narrowly beaten by FC Halifax Town in the Step 2 play-off final just two seasons ago.
The Northamptonshire side found the going tough last term, beating the drop by only two points thanks to a dramatic win over Hednesford Town on the final day.
However, with some heavy hitters coming into the league for the new campaign, with Alfreton and AFC Telford dropping down and FC United coming up, Brady says last season's final day drama has given his side the strength and courage to fend off the best the league has to offer.
“Last season we had a gruelling run-in and, being a part-time club, it really got to us,” he told The NLP.
“We knew it was going to be a struggle and, with the limited financial resources we had, we were pleased we managed to stay in the division.
“We are optimistic about our chances this time around. We have kept nine players from last season, who really came through for us during some tough times during our relegation battle and we have a group of five youngsters who are up and coming and hungry to make an impact.
“Former players like Steve Diggin and Glenn Walker have also signed up for the new campaign and that's a testament to their character and how much they've enjoyed being at the club in the past.”
The Aussie manager added: “We are getting a very good blend together in the squad and although I don't pay too much attention to odds, we would really like to prove the bookies wrong and be the surprise package next season.”
AFC Fylde, at 11/2, are favourites for the crown but Brady insists it's almost impossible to pick a clear winner this early on.
“This is the strongest the league has been in a long time,” he said. “There are some big clubs with big reputations coming in, along with some fantastic players and managers.
“In my opinion, whoever goes on to win it will do so with the lowest points tally for some time.
“However, we will embrace the challenge and see where it takes us. If everyone is fit and plays to their full potential, we can beat anyone – we proved that last season by seeing off Barrow.
“It's going to be a battle, but I know my boys will fight every step of the way.”
