Halifax have been through a summer of upheaval, but that hasn't stopped league betting partners Corbett Sports making them 11/4 favourites to lift the championship.

But while boss Vince is quietly confident about Town's prospects, he is taking the odds with a pinch of salt.

The former Witton Albion chief said: "It's always nice when people consider that you are favourites to win the league.

"The way I look at it is are the odds based on the whole of the team from last year being retained, like say Boston (in the UniBond Premier)?

"If they've done that to make us favourites, you can understand the reasons why.

"But we shouldn't be favourites. We are a newly-formed club and team.

"There are established teams and good teams in this division that will have a better platform.

"I don't like blowing the teams' trumpet, but I feel we'll be there or thereabouts come the season, I'm pretty sure."

Town's footballing odyssey under their new guise begins with a home encounter with Bamber Bridge at the Shay tomorrow – and Vince admits it will be an emotional afternoon for the home faithful.

He said: "Three months ago, the supporters didn't have a football team so it's a special moment for the diehard supporters, who watch the club week in, week out.

"For me to lead the team out in the first competitive game in the club's history is also a proud moment for me.

"But it's not about me and the players, this club is built on the foundations of the supporters.

"The board – David Bosomworth, Bobby Ham and Stuart Peacock – are nice people. Football people through and through and it will be extra special for those guys, because they made this happen and are supporters."

Elsewhere, Garforth Town – whose newcomers include Lee Connor and ex-Ossett Town and Frickley Athletic striker Andy Hayward – hit the road, making the long trip to North Wales to take on Colwyn Bay.

Harrogate Railway, whose arrivals include ex-Liversedge striker Nicky Boshell and former Guiseley man Dean Walters, are at home to Lancaster City.

Ossett Albion travel to Radcliffe Borough, while Wakefield – whose striker Tom Denton has been linked with Crystal Palace and Blackburn – entertain Woodley Sports.

Ends