BOLTON WANDERERS reserves begin the new season with a local derby against Manchester City at the County Ground in Leyland on Monday evening in the Manchester Senior Cup.

Alan Cork's men start their quest for glory in the tournament featuring teams from the Greater Manchester region against the men from Eastlands, who last lifted the trophy back in 2007.

The recently appointed Assistant Head Coach and Reserve Team Manager predicts a tough clash but is looking forward to taking control of his troops for the first time.

Cork said: "It's our first competitive match so it's going to be interesting to see how we get on.

"We are playing a fairly strong team with six senior pros likely to feature. We want to win every game and play the best we can, obviously that's not always the case but we will give this competition our best shot.

"They are a good group of lads who have gelled well. There's a great team spirit within the side which is vital - without that, you're struggling."

Kick-off is at 7pm. Admission is priced at £4 for adults and £2 for concessions while standing is £3 for adults and £1 for concessions.