WANDERERS have the opportunity to lift some early silverware in tonight’s friendly at Chorley as they contest the Harold Taylor Memorial Trophy.

Ian Evatt is expected to play a handful of first teamers in the team at Victory Park, with the rest made up of youth team and development squad players.

The game is billed as a Wanderers XI and will represent the first time that Sam Hird has taken charge of a side since arriving at the University of Bolton Stadium from Barrow.

Last week’s game against Bamber Bridge was called off because of a number of coronavirus positive tests in the academy but with things now back to normal, Hird should be able to have a better look at the squad he will be managing in the Central League this season.

And if the game is level after 90 minutes the game will be settled with a penalty shootout.

Chorley boss Jamie Vermiglio is looking for more from his players after Saturday’s 2-0 defeat against Dorking.

“We’re looking for a response from the squad after Saturday’s disappointing performance against Dorking,” he said. “With plenty of minutes in the bank for everyone, the next few weeks is a battle for starting places ahead of the opening day against Brackley Town.”

Ticket prices are £10 for adults, £5 for Under-12s to 17s & FREE for Chorley season ticket holders and accompanied u12s.

A cash turnstile will be in operation on the night and all fans are advised to social distance where possible.

A Wanderers XI are also down to face Chester on Wednesday, August 4 (7pm kick-off) and Hird's side will also play behind closed doors, alongside the Under-18s, agaisnt Norwich City on Saturday.

Evatt’s first team take on Blackburn Rovers at home in their final pre-season friendly on Saturday (3pm kick-off).

The manager is pleased with the level of competition he currently has in most areas of his squad.

Despite a few injuries and Covid absences in pre-season, Wanderers have remained unbeaten over their first five friendlies.

“We’ve got real competition and that’s what we want.,” he said. “Liam Gordon is really stepping up to give Dec a fight and Brocky and Gethin – I thought Brock did well at centre back at Barrow – we just miss Rico’s presence really.

“We’ve obviously got Will Aimson and George Johnston missing, so when everyone’s back and firing, we’ve got a really a really competitive squad which is exactly what we set out to have in the summer.”