Quakers play the last game in their pre-season build up when they face Middlesbrough Under 23s at Blackwell Meadows on Saturday (kick off 1pm).

Quakers have played some very entertaining football in the pre-season build up, and manager Alun Armstrong sees the game as another opportunity to increase the players’ sharpness, fitness and understanding as the big day against Farsley on 3^rd August approaches – and a five game schedule in the first fortnight of the season.

“I want the players to continue what they’ve been doing as pre-season has gone on. Their fitness and understanding have all steadily improved,” he said.

He will also use the game to possibly make a final decision on the future of three players who have figured in several pre-season games – Omar Holness, Cedwyn Scott and Lucas Bell.

AA has also gained permission from Middlesbrough to play Tyrone O’Neill, who is on loan from the Boro, in his starting line-up.

Midfielder David Atkinson is definitely out because of a foot injury – happily an X ray showed that there were no bones broken in his foot last Saturday -- while several others are carrying minor knocks that AA is taking into consideration ahead of the big kick off against Farsley Celtic next Saturday – the midweek friendly against Whitby has been cancelled.

Jamie Holmes, who has been on holiday, will play at least 45 minutes of the game.

Boro sent their under 23 squad for a friendly at Shildon on Wednesday night, and included keeper Ainsley Pears, who had a great spell on loan with us two seasons ago, and midfielder Lewis Wing who starred in their first team last season. They drew 2-2 at Dean Street.

They will also include several of their promising youngsters who are expected to push for first team places this season.

Don’t forget that Saturday’s game kicks off at 1pm. Admission is £8 adults, £5 concessions and Under 18s, free for Under 11s if accompanied.