THERE have been a number of changes both on and off-the-field since we were crowned League Two Champions back in May and I would like to take this opportunity to welcome all of our summer signings to the club.

We have worked extremely hard in preparation for the challenges that lie ahead this season. The team is gelling together all of the time and, with patience and time, I have every confidence that they can develop into a more than useful side.

There is healthy competition for places throughout the squad and I feel confident that we can start the season on a positive note and build upon the momentum of last year.

We face a difficult start as we welcome everyone connected to Carlisle United. They came up from League Two the season before last and settled quickly into life at the higher level, narrowly missing out on a place in the play-offs last term.

Neil McDonald's side will provide us with a tough first test and are sure to be backed by a large and vocal following. The challenge for our supporters is to make yourselves heard and provide us with the inspiration to make a winning start.

Looking back at our game against Aston Villa on Tuesday evening, our second half display gave us plenty of cause for encouragement and optimism. During the first half we maybe showed our Premiership opponents a little too much respect, but, as you would expect, we had a chat at half-time and put in a much better display after the restart.

Thankfully we came off the pitch with no injuries and a good performance both individually and collectively to give our confidence a timely boost.

Thank you for your support. By working together and all pulling in the same direction, we can hopefully make it another season to remember for all the right reasons.

RICHARD MONEY