VAUXHALL Motors have arranged three of their pre-season matches ahead of the new Nationwide Conference North season, though other irons are also in the fire.

As things stand, the first confirmed friendly is away to League of Wales club Bangor City on Saturday, July 29 (2.30pm). That is followed three days later by a game against local amateur club Blacon YC on August 1 (7.15pm).

On Saturday, August 5 - the immediate weekend before the new season starts - the Motormen will travel to Unibond Premier Division club Burscough (kick-off 3pm).

The Motormen ended the campaign in 18th place with 43 points. When Carl Macauley took over as manager in December, they had just eight points and were strong candidates for the drop. It will go down as Motors' Great Escape, as they won as many games as they lost under his leadership.

Vauxhall's end-of-season presentations were of particular interest.

The managers' choice for Player-of-the-Season was their most consistent performer, former Everton youngster Brian Moogan, who joined the Motormen last Spring from Lancaster City, while the players and supporters both chose captain Steve McNulty for his dominating presence in the heart of the Motors defence.

On the West Cheshire League front, reserves manager Aubrey Rogers' Player-of-the Season was his captain Alan Griffiths, the former Tranmere Rovers player. The supporters were also in agreement, as Griffiths also collected their award, but the players' choice was Chris Daniels, who has been a revelation along with his fellow full-back, Keith McGinnagle.

Meanwhile, the club's Ladies' Under-17s and Under-18s held their presentation night together. Sara Davies was named Player-of-the-Season with Colette Hill collecting the Club-person award.

Graeme Davidson lifted the Under-18s Player-of-the-Season trophy, while team-mate Greg Edwards was named Clubman of the Year. Honours for the Under-17s, who lifted the Cleveland Cup, went to Rob Jones and Dean Lewis, respectively.