OXLEY Vale Attunga Mushrooms begin the defence of their Northern Inland Football McDonald’s Premier League first grade premiership in Tamworth today.
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The Mushies play Moree at Max Sutton Oval in a second-round clash after Moree lost 4-2 to North Armidale on their home turf last week.
The Mushies have had something of different preparation for their new season too after celebrating the bucks party of club stalwart Brendon Fergie last weekend.
“It was a good party,” captain Chris Fenton said.
He left it there, not having to expand on how good a bonding session it was for many of the Mushies and one of their stars.
The Mushies launched their new season – and new playing strip – at Max Sutton Oval yesterday.
They will be missing three of last season’s winning first grade squad – Ben Genardini, Sam Coates and Cameron Skewes.
“Ben’s retired and Sam is overseas,” Fenton said.
“We still have a good core of experienced players who have played together for a long while.”
The Mushies have a host of sponsors to thank – West Entertainment Group (major), Harvey Norman, Ardina Electrical, ATAC, Aztek Roofing and Guttering, Plumes on the Green, Redimix Concrete, Penrose Prime Meats, Bakers Delight, Tamworth Shoppingworld, McKnight Signs, Kidzone and Air Freeze Refrigeration.
“Whilst we have three or four players missing from last year’s grand final victory we have picked up some great signings in the off season and also have some quality juniors coming through who will fit perfectly into the side,” Fenton said.
The club has seen an overall increase in numbers and will field over 20 teams this season counting juniors through to the two Premier League sides.
While the Mushies are at home at Max Sutton Oval, North Companions and Tamworth FC are also at home, the Gavin Thompson-coached North Companions hosting Namoi United at Marius Street and Tamworth FC tackling Gunnedah United at Johnson Field.
North Armidale United and South Armidale Scorpions stage a big local derby at Phil Wheaton Oval and North Armidale and Inverell Joeys play East Armidale at Inverell Sporting Complex.