Soccer: International signings strengthen the Force

Nine marquee international signings will form the centrepiece, or indeed almost the entire Bunbury Forum Force squad, when it begins its campaign for redemption in the Football West Division One this weekend.

Big defenders, and stars of last season Jordan Rispin and Oliver McGee have returned to the club for the 2011 season, as has Neil Chappell.

Last week, the South Western Times revealed that tough English recruit Ashley Young had also inked a deal with the club. Last night former Glasgow Rangers defender Ross Harvey was expected in Bunbury, although it was unclear whether he would play this weekend.

Other overseas players to sign include English striker John Brooks, midfielder Mark Haslam, American midfielder Evan Chate and Michael Martin.

Ahead of their opening fixture against Fremantle Spirit at the Hay Park Soccerdrome this weekend, coach Nigel Wilcox said the club was well placed to challenge for promotion in 2011.

‘‘We’ve got a good mix of experienced and young players,’’ he said.

‘‘What we had was amid-table side of young talent and that would have been ok.

‘‘But the club has chosen to go and chase these players again so we’ve got quite extensive depth now.

‘‘From a mid-table side, we’re now hoping to be pushing for promotion again, there’s no reason why we can’t.

‘‘We’ll have to get off to a good start of course.’’

Only five of the international signings are expected to play against Fremantle.

After having one eye on a place in the top flight State Premier League last season, the Force had their dreams crushed after a disastrous end to 2010 saw them eventually slip from first spot.

The squad, which has not yet fully assembled in Bunbury, has only played one game together—a 4-1 friendly match win over Rockingham last weekend in which Jayden Prosser and Martin both scored twice.

‘‘I’m just hoping that they gel quickly, because that’s the name of the game,’’ Wilcox said.

‘‘They are experienced players and I’m sure that they’ll slot into the side and do the job to the best of their ability.

‘‘What’s at the top of my mind is that we’ve got to win the first game.’’

The Force take on Fremantle Spirit at Hay Park from 3pm this Saturday.