LEIGH RMI boss Mark Patterson is relieved to be playing Accrington Stanley early in the Nationwide Conference campaign.

The former Blackburn Rovers and Bolton Wanderers centre forward admitted he would rather catch them while they are finding their feet instead of later in the season when they have had time to settle into the league.

The Reds made a good impression on Patterson in their televised first game at Aldershot on Sunday, and he believes Stanley's financial superiority and a healthy fan base will help them pack a punch in the Nationwide Conference.

He has even backed John Coleman's side to finish higher than Leigh RMI this season.

"I thought they played very well at Aldershot," said the 38-year-old, who brings his troops to the Interlink Express Stadium for Stanley's first home game tonight (kick-off 7.45pm).

"They were unfortunate to have Jamie Speare sent off but he had to go.

"Going down to 10 men showed the character of the team though. They played very well and were unlucky not to get a result in the end.

"Their right back Peter Cavanagh looks a good player, but the overall commitment of the team impressed me more than anything.

"It looks like John has got a good team spirit going down there but, to be honest, I expected that."

And he added that every penny would count as Stanley seek to achieve their aim of returning to the Football League.

Since winning promotion to the Conference in 2000, Leigh have struggled to survive with crowds of around 400 for every home game.

"We've got the lowest wage bill in the Conference, but I strengthen whenever possible, get on with it and put a team out because I have to," said Patterson, whose side beat Dagenham and Redbridge 2-1 at home on the opening day.

"Realistically we're aiming to finish just outside the relegation zone. If we carry on playing like we did on Saturday then I believe we can finish mid-table, and if we're up there just after Christmas then I'll have one eye on the play-offs because you've got to be optimistic.

"But I think Stanley will finish above us this season because they have better finances and the supporters who pump money into the club to help improve the squad when they need to.

"They've already made some great signings in Gordon Armstrong, Paul Cook and John Durnin. I've played against all of those in my career and their experience will be invaluable.

"I'm a bit envious of Stanley and a lot of clubs, especially when they pull gates in over 1,600 because that means they can go and spend money."

He added: "I'm glad we're playing them now when the league is still new to them, although I remember when Leigh first came up, we were footloose and fancy free and I anticipate Accrington will be like that."

Patterson is expected to field a similar side to the one which beat Dagenham on Saturday, although defender Wayne Waden is back after suspension. New signings Paul Shepherd and Paul Browne are also available for selection.