AS the final phase of Bury's pre-season campaign swings into action at Spotland tomorrow manager Stan Ternent has declared himself happy with his side's progress with the new season a week away.

A narrow defeat in Tuesday evening's 2-1 'Clash of the Champions' against Premiership Bolton Wanderers was no disgrace and as the Shakers chief explained the performance bodes well for the forthcoming Division One campaign.

"That was a smashing workout for us because Bolton are a very good side and I'm grateful for Toddy bringing them down to play us," he said.

"If you take into account that they were by miles the best team in the division last year I think we came out of the game with a lot of credit.

"These games are all about finding your fitness, shape and pattern and that's what we're looking for from them.

"We've a final game tomorrow against Rochdale then another full week's work and I reckon we'll be well ready for the start," he added.

Ternent takes a squad of 18 into the Rochdale game which will pit Bury's leading scorer of last season, Mark Carter, up against his former teammates.

The 36-year-old prolific marksman hit 62 goals for the Shakers in 113 full appearances before being given a free transfer in the close season.

As well as Carter, 'Dale boss Graham Barrow has plundered three more Lancashire clubs for new faces.

Central defender John Pender has joined from Wigan Athletic as has experienced full-back Andy Barlow (Blackpool) and Preston midfielder Ian Bryson.

A BURY XI fought out a 0-0 with North West Counties League Ramsbottom United at the Riverside Ground on Wednesday evening.

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