HENLLAN are aiming to embark on a historic campaign.

The back-to-back champions will be looking to become the first team in more than three decades to win the league in three consecutive seasons - and become only the fourth club ever to achieve this feat.

Llandyrnog were the last club to win three titles in a row way back in 1985 and this was the last of their record-breaking nine consecutive championships.

The only other clubs to win three championships in consecutive seasons are Trefnant (1927-9 and 1946-8) and Bodfari (1960-2).

Llandyrnog boss Jimmy McNally is anticipating a familiar outcome this season.

"I think the favourites for the league has to be Henllan again this year," he said.

Nantglyn's Tom Lewis agreed with this sentiment and he said: "I think Henllan have to be considered the favourites again.

"Their first XI and strength in depth means that it’ll be tough for anyone to beat them."

Henllan will begin their tilt at a 10th title with a testing trip to last year's runners-up Cefn on Monday, while fancied Nantglyn and Llanrhaeadr will also clash on the opening night.

Llandyrnog boss McNally added: "I believe Llanrhaeadr will have a strong squad that will certainly contend, as well as Cefn.

"We have lost a couple of big hitters this season, but as ever I believe we'll be in the mix for a title push.

"Our target will be to hopefully bring some youngsters through the ranks whilst keeping up a title challenge."

Hopes are also high for an improved campaign for last season's basement side Clawddnewydd.

Club chairman Huw K Williams said: "Hopefully it will be an exciting season for Clawddnewydd after being granted the services of a handful of players from the Melin y Wig and Betws GG areas following a tough couple of seasons.

"We look forward to welcoming our supporters again this year and, by popular demand, there will be hot beverages available during the game!"

Clawddnewydd's season kicks-off at home versus Rhewl on Monday, while Llandyrnog play host to Ysceifiog.

The other fixture sees Llangynhafal welcoming Llanfair.

Opening night matches will kick-off at 6.45pm.