STAND ATHLETIC set themselves up nicely for their opening game in North West Counties League Division Two as they completed their friendly programme with another victory.

They visit Blackpool side Squire's Gate tomorrow and manager Nick Davis will welcome the Denham brothers, Chris and Mark, back into his squad, but will have defenders Warren Gallagher and Simon Hannan missing.

Hannan, who has been in great form since his return to the club, is suspended.

On Tuesday night they make the long trip to Barrow to take on Holker Old Boys before opening their home programme against local rivals, Nelson, a week on Saturday.

Stand have won all their warm-up games and there were more highs than lows in the 4-1 win over Clitheroe.

The only low point was Clitheroe's decision to send a virtual reserve side to take on the Stand team after the match was billed as the highlight of their summer and a game to test Stand's actual strength.

But there was little to motivate Stand due to Clitheroe's disappointing approach to the game.

Stand's assistant manager, Nick Woods, said: "We are very disappointed with Clitheroe and their attitude.

"We are starting out on a new era for the club and a high profile fixture like this would have helped us.

"They obviously have a high opinion of themselves. We will be writing to them and the NWCL about this matter."

It wasn't just Clitheroe who felt Woods wrath. Local rivals Rossendale United will also be hearing from the Latics following their failure to honour a reserve fixture which had to be called off at the last minute. Woods added: "This match cost us money and I will be sending a bill to Rossendale, along with a copy letter I am sending to the LFA."

The highs though have featured the club's two biggest tests. After defeating Springhead and Old Standians in their opening encounters, the 3-2 win at Flixton was followed by an excellent performance and result at Ewood Bridge last Wednesday against a young and talented Altrincham side.

Stand produced the kind of football which has been the hallmark of their success of over the last three seasons, quickly closing down and attacking their visitors, their passing and movement was a delight to watch.

Altrincham, sticking to a rigid game plan, were never really allowed to get into their stride, despite showing flashes of the skill they can produce.

It was a more direct approach that brought Stand their first goal, Steve Davis rising at the back post to head home Neil Dawes cross from a corner.

The quicksilver Dawes added a second just before the interval, driving into the box and hitting a low shot into the bottom corner.

Despite Altrincham's attempt to pep things up in the second half, Stand were just too hot for them and nearly went further behind, but were let off by Mick Bartholomew's penalty miss.

However, substitute Jordan Ashton grabbed a third goal to seal a first class night's work.

There is action at Ewood Bridge this Saturday when the reserves entertain Salford City Reserves, kick-off 3pm, club details on 07950 102307.