CEFN Druids boss Neil Ashton has faced hurdles in strengthening his squad ahead of the big kick-off.

Druids, relegated from the Cymru Premier last season, open their Cymru North programme tonight with a home clash versus Prestatyn Town.

"We have had a few issues regarding international clearances and that, which has been an issue," said Ashton.

"I didn't realise how long things can take on that side of things.

"All being well, if we can get them (players) it will be great.

"From our point, it will look like a similar team to last year."

Most of the Cymru North clubs have a competitive game under their belts after a weekend of Welsh League Cup action.

However, Druids received a first round bye and had to play a friendly instead.

"We had a good run out against Market Drayton and the players did really well," added Ashton.

"We had a chance to look at a few players."

On the prospect of coming up against Prestatyn, he said: "I think they have had 12 months of uncertain times and a large influx of players out and players in.

"I think we are two teams with question marks over us."

Gresford Athletic boss Eddie Maurice-Jones has described tomorrow's trip to Penrhyncoch as "one of the toughest places to go".

It's a relatively young Gresford squad this season, which triumphed 1-0 at Denbigh Town in the Welsh League Cup to open the season in positive fashion.

"We are playing Penrhyncoch away on Saturday," said Maurice-Jones.

"It is one of the toughest places to go and we are not that experienced."

There is a bit of experience in the squad, which will be crucial moving forward.

"We have got a new group, but we will make up for that lack of experience with rawness, energy," he added.

"If you can defend and keep a clean sheet, you have got a good chance of getting a result.

"We have got a young, energetic, pacy sort of attack.

"We have been really pleased so far.

"We have spoke about it, there will be games because this league is full of surprises.

"If you write someone off, they can turn it on."