Skem book clash of the day

Evo-Stik Northern Premier League Skelmersdale United are celebrating after announcing they are taking on a Manchester United XI, writes Neil Leatherbarrow.

The First Division North's title winners revealed on Friday that a United XI is set to arrive at the West Lancashire College Stadium on Tuesday July 30.

Skelmersdale United manager Tommy Lawson is thrilled with the news and sees it as further recognition of the club's progress. After the fixture was confirmed, he said: "I am excited by the game and it is a huge commendation for the work that has been done here and the success we have achieved.

"I spoke to a United official a couple of weeks ago about the game and I got the impression that what attracted him was not just our recent playing record, but the quality of football we play and the way local players have progressed in the game after leaving the club as he mentioned Craig Noone [now at Cardiff City] by name."

Lawson added: "It is not just good for Skelmersdale United but a huge lift for the whole town, to be recognised by such a worldwide organisation can only be good for the people and businesses too. A couple of the players have already rung me up about the game and said how much they are looking forward to it and they have done plenty to earn such an accolade.

"For a Non-League player so be able to say he played against Manchester United is some big thing in itself. It will be a memorable night and arguably is the biggest team Skelmersdale United have ever played. I hope as many people as possible get down to savour the occasion."

Skem say ticketing and pricing arrangements will be announced during the next week for the clash which is one of the latest to be added to the friendly fixtures service now running on the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League's official website.

To view nearly 300 pre-season fixtures featuring Evo-Stik NPL clubs click on the 'match info' tab on the home page. Club officials should send their updates or amendments to: dwatters@evostikleague.co.uk.

Updates on friendlies from across Non-League are also available on Pitchero's Non-League pages throughout the summer.