PORTLAND Red Triangle’s first three fixtures of the summer will gauge how the club is progressing following a successful 2013.

That is the opinion of first XI vice-captain Simon Barrett ahead of his team’s opening weekend derby clash at Dor-chester Seconds tomorrow.

Following that encounter, the islanders face Cerne Valley and Weymouth Seconds in a tough-looking start to life in Dorset League Division Two.

“We have got three challenging games to start with and they will give us a good indication of the progress we have made,” said Barrett, pictured.

“The side is largely the same and we are looking to build on finishing third last year.

“Some of the younger players are now a year older and have a bit more experience this time.”

Portland Seconds begin their Division Four campaign with a home fixture against Corfe Mullen Seconds, giving debuts to Mark Charles and Cameron Midgeley.

Also making his senior bow is 15-year-old Luke Strong, an up and coming product of the club’s successful youth programme.

Skipper Grant Neven is looking forward to the season and is hopeful his charges will perform well over the coming months.

He said: “We are blooding several youngsters this season as the club looks to build on last year’s successes.

“The club have made a few new signings and with all sides performing well this will lead to competition for places.”

Firsts: S Males, S Barrett, M Barrett, Profitt, Randell, Adkins, Leake, Munroe, Price, Cameron, Brown

Seconds: Neven, Charles, West, Locke, Quayle, Strong, Morris, Dalkins, D Males, Thornton, Midgeley

Second XI match ball sponsor: Red House Estate Agents