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Preview: Bradford v Macclesfield
Simon Carter10/ 8/2007
MACCLESFIELD boss Ian Brightwell has set his team a tough target of 12 points from the first four games of the season.
The Moss Rose side are in for a tricky start away against relegated Bradford City but Brightwell will not settle for a draw.
"We have a tough opening sequence with games at Bradford and Grimsby and at home to MK Dons and Darlington, but I'll be looking for 12 points," said Brightwell.
If so, he will have to turn round their shocking away form of the last two years.
Last season Macc won four, drew five and lost 14 games away from home and Brightwell said: "Obviously I am looking for better away form and part of that is going into every game aiming for a win.
"I will not be going into any game thinking I'd be happy with a draw, certainly not Bradford."
Brightwell may make three or four changes from his last pre-season game, a 2-0 defeat at home to Oldham, with new signings Martin Gritton and Michael Husbands looking for a starting berth alongside fellow new boy Francis Green.
Danny Thomas and Simon Wiles will both be hoping to get a start on the wings, but for all his attacking intent Brightwell may pack midfield, rather than play 4-4-2.
Macc will be without David Morley and Jamie Tolley for the first month, but the defence is bound to be strengthened by new signings Luke Dimech and Richard Edghill.
Key Opponent: Omar Daley - The Jamaican's pre-season performance suggests he will play a key role as a winger or a central striker for the Bantams
Prediction: Bradford 0 Macclesfield 1 - Bradford away is a tough challenge but with a tidy start and a late goal a win is possible.
You can get 14/1 on a 2-2 draw with Betfred. For this and more odds, click here.
Will Macc start with a win? Have your say.
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