Town manager Lee Clark is relishing the prospect of a stern test at Southend United on the opening day of the 2009/10 League One season.
Steve Tilson's side finished 8th in League One last season - one place above the Terriers - and are expected to be a force in the division again next season but Town boss Clark told htafc.com that he wanted his side to face a real challenge on the opening day.
"Obviously Southend had a terrific season last term and I am really happy that our side will face such a stern test on the opening day of the campaign," Lee told the Club's official website.
"I was talking to someone yesterday and I said that League One will be very competitive this season. Some fantastic clubs have been relegated from the Championship last term and whoever we drew on the opening day it would have been very tough.
"It has been a very exciting week for the fans with the Cup draw and the release of the League One fixtures. We got a home draw in the Carling Cup, which is all we could really hope for, and now everyone can start planning for the League season - fans, players and coaching staff alike."
The opening game at Southend will be particularly special for Peter Clarke, who has moved to Huddersfield from the Essex side during the summer.
"I always enjoyed going back and playing against my former clubs and I imagine Peter will feel exactly the same way, so it is a big game for him. He has been a very good player for Southend over the last few seasons and it will be a big day for him."
Clark also commented on the first home League game of the campaign against Southampton on Saturday August 15th.
"The first home game is tremendous for everyone. I watched Southampton on a number of occasions last season and they have a very talented set of young players and I think it was only a lack of experience that let them down at times. I watched them dominate games, but lose out to a silly late goal.
"I'm ready and waiting no - I can't wait to get the players back in for training on June 29th. They should really respond to the fitness work and we will be raring to go come August 8th!"
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