BURNLEY coach Simon Finnan believes it will be a case of quality AND quantity if they are to challenge at the top end of the newly-formed RFU Lancashire North division.

And in recruiting two talented young Kiwis, he hopes he has achieved both in one swoop.

With the league now containing 14 teams instead of the 11 that played in North Lancs One last season, more games means clubs with bigger squads are the ones that will last the distance.

Burnley have retained much of last season’s squad - only James Henderson has left for Blackburn - and their ranks have been swelled by the arrival of Adam Wallace and Cody Fell who have swapped New Zealand for East Lancashire.

The club has connections with the greatest rugby country in the world with Richard Murray the most recent player to run out at Holden Road.

“They are two young lads who fancy coming over here and playing a bit of rugby and they are both a welcome addition to the squad,” said player/coach Finnan.

“We have had a few players come over from New Zealand over the years, Muzz being the most recent. He came and ended up staying for five years.

“They just fancied getting out of New Zealand for a while and I’m sure the lads will enjoy their stay in Burnley.”

Wallace, 25, will play in the back row while 21-year-old Fell will challenge for the half back position.

Both will add strength in depth to the Burnley squad who open their campaign at home to Trafford MV on Saturday before entertaining Bury the following week.

“With such a big league this season, it is important to build the squad,” added Finnan. “That is vital because I think it will be down to those teams with the most players to call on who will be challenging for the top spots.

“That will certainly by the case for us because we know we will miss players due to work commitments and injuries from time to time so that is the when having those extra players comes in to play.”

Paul Mallaband will again captain the first team with Tom Ives, a strong running centre, appointed as vice captain to add leadership to a young squad.

Burnley have again dipped in to their junior ranks to bolster their senior sides.

Chris Pickles, out injured for the last two seasons, makes his return along with Lee Ferrier, Dec Hutchinson and Ben Simes.

And Reece Clark, who represented the club last year, will compete for a backs position.

“Realistically, the Firsts should push the top teams if all our players are available every week,” added Finnan. “Whatever happens, we will make sure we enjoy our rugby.”