AS the new year kicks off, two Andover football clubs – Town and New Street – embark on a new journey of resilience in their respective leagues.

While the Town side are battling to avoid relegation, Street are targeting to make a presence in their new league with a better end to the season and a potential top-10 finish.

Town find itself in a challenging position in the Velocity Wessex League Division One, seated second bottom in the league table.

With only 12 points from 18 games, the team are currently five points away from the safety zone.

They are narrowly above New Milton Town, who languish at the bottom with just one point from 17 games.

The importance of the upcoming fixtures for Andover Town cannot be overstated, as the primary goal for Town is to secure their place in the league.

Downton leads the league comfortably with 45 points from 18 games.

Unfortunately, Andover Town's first game of the year on Wednesday, January 3, against Totton & Eling away was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.

The next challenge awaits them against Verwood Town at Portway on Saturday, January 6.

The players, undeterred by the setback, will be eager to make a strong start to the new year and turn the tide in their favour.

For Andover New Street, the new year brings an opportunity to gain some momentum and strengthen their position in the Wessex League Premier Division.

Currently placed 11th in the table with 23 points from 19 games, they aim for greater consistency in their first season at this higher level.

Their last game against AFC Stoneham at Foxcotte Park on Saturday, December 30, was postponed, adding anticipation for their upcoming clash against away Blackfield & Langley on Saturday, January 6.

Facing a team in the relegation battle, Andover New Street will be hoping to secure a positive result and solidify their standing in the Premier Division.