Dunion aims for top five finish

Rothwell Town are capable of challenging for the title this season, according to manager Rob Dunion.

Following their 19th position finish in the Southern League Division One Midlands, Dunion has brought in 10 new players and three academy graduates.

Dunion told BBC Radio Northampton: "The players last season probably weren't good enough to be challenging.

"But if we're not in the top four or five at the end of the season I'd be really disappointed".

Dunion, who used to manage Corby Town, has brought in several players from his previous club including goalkeeper Lee Crockett, defender Steve Julian and strikers Tom Mills and Michael Byrne.

"I've tried to bring back a lot of players I've had at previous clubs. I think they've gelled quickly because they know each other," said Dunion.

"But they know they have to fight for the shirt".

Speaking after his side's 3-1 defeat to Rushden and Diamonds in a pre-season friendly, Dunion emphasised the positives from the performance.

"The Rushden quality told first half. We could've done better with the goals, but in the second half, we've reacted and it's encouraging that we've showed some fight."