Welcome back to Gigg Lane, Shakers fans! The Premier Division is back, and oh boy, did we return in style. Bury triumphed in our opening fixture, and the excitement was palpable. Let's dive into the details:
Saturday marked the beginning of a new era for Wythenshawe, Pilkington, and Chadderton, celebrating their promotion to Step 5 with victories. Wythenshawe impressively brushed aside Ramsbottom United 4-0. Pilkington began their new journey by overcoming Squires Gate 2-0, while Chadderton made their presence known with a 3-0 triumph over Litherland REMYCA.
But the highlight of the day, undoubtedly, was right here at Gigg Lane, where 5,451 of us – setting a new Premier Division record – witnessed our unified Bury demolish Glossop North End 5-1. Andy Welsh's men were relentless, taking a 3-0 lead within the first half an hour. Quickfire goals from Benito Lowe and one from Andrew Briggs gave us a flying start, and the atmosphere was electric. Jordi Nsaka added a fourth, and after Glossop managed a mere consolation, Jack Lenehan sealed the deal with a brilliant finish. The crowd's roar was deafening, and the kick-off delay of 15 minutes due to congestion only heightened the anticipation.
Unfortunately, the opening day wasn't as joyous for the teams dropping back into the North West Counties. All four tasted defeat, Colne being thrashed 3-0 at West Didsbury & Chorlton. Skelmersdale United, another fallen side, went down 3-1 to Padiham.
Meanwhile, despite being down to ten men, FC Isle of Man recorded a 2-0 win over Wythenshawe Town. Burscough picked up a promising 3-1 win over Prestwich Heys, and Longridge Town came from behind to draw 2-2 with Irlam. The other fixtures saw a 1-1 draw between Lower Breck and Barnoldswick Town, Charnock Richard's 1-0 win over Cheadle Town, and Kendal Town scraping past AFC Liverpool 1-0.
But let's not lose focus, Shakers faithful! This was OUR day, OUR triumph, and it's just the beginning. The spirit is alive at Gigg Lane, and we can't wait to see where this season takes us. Onwards and upwards, Bury! Here's to more glorious days ahead! #BuryFc #UpTheShakers! #UTS
