BRIDPORT manager Peter Conning is calling on his players to stand up to tougher opposition.

The Bees begin a difficult run of games, particularly on the road, with a trip to Paulton Rovers' Athletic Ground tomorrow, kick-off 3pm.

Rovers have been a consistently strong outfit in the Screwfix Direct Premier Division in recent times, finishing in the top eight in the last two years.

Conning believes Bridport have to get mean if they're going to pick up points against the league's better quality opponents.

He said: "When we played up at Bideford we competed for every ball and didn't lose many challenges and I want us to get physical like that every week.

"It will be difficult game for us but it's vital we start picking up points from somewhere," he added.

Conning has no fresh injury worries following Wed-

nesday's Dorset Senior Cup victory but he will leave it until late to name his final squad.

Martin Underhay and Simon Austin could stay with the Reserves as they are both in need of match practice after lengthy lay-offs.

Richard Parkinson, who missed the midweek game because he was playing a college fixture, returns to the fold.

Bridport (from): Peters, Pashen, Grabham, Rose, Conning, Gardner, Bews, Parkinson, Newland, Armstrong, Austin, Stewart, Taylor, Thomas, S Gale, Underhay, Gisborne.

* Bridport Reserves' player manager Kevin Donovan has a full compliment of players for the visit of Bournemouth Sports to St Mary's Field in the Elite Teamwear Premier Division, kick-off 3pm.

But at least two of his large squad are expected to be involved with the first team this week.

He said: "Reserves regulars Dan Taylor and Darren Stewart both deserve a chance on their form this season."

First team regular Andy Hitchcock could figure, to make the next step in his recovery from a knee injury.

Bridport won the away fixture 3-0 in what Donovan rates as probably their best performance of the season.

"I regard Bournemouth Sports as the best footballing side in the division. They are very young and inexperienced but if you let them play they can run all over you.

"We worked very hard up there for a win and will have to do the same again," he added.

Bridport Res (from): Ryland, Cuff, Walkey, Stewart, Smith, Lock, Leighton, Walker, Thomas, Taylor, Middleton, Donovan, A Gale, Richards, Cotterill, Fry, Austin, Hitchcock, Underhay, White.