GARY Bailey insists there is a positive vibe around Grove Corner at present, as Portland United continue to gel together in pre-season.

The island manager saw his charges overcome Western Premier Division outfit Sherborne Town 3-0 at home as the Blues’ boss continued to give his side match minutes ahead of their Sydenhams Wessex Premier Division campaign.

Goals for Alex Halloran, Jamie Beasley and Carl McClements ensured Portland comfortably overcame the Zebras.

And from what he has seen so far this summer, Bailey was full of praise for his players’ commitment to the cause.

Asked what has impressed him the most about his squad’s

preparation, Bailey told Echosport: “Their attitudes have been great as well as their work-rate when they are in training or in games.

“They are listening to what we are asking them, as we have slightly tweaked things a little bit this year.

“The lads that were there before have adapted to the little changes we have made, taken it on board and gone into it.

“The new lads are fitting in really well as well and I knew they would.

“The whole vibe around the club at the moment has a good feeling about it.”

Commenting further about the triumph over Sherborne, the manager added: “We created lots of chances, dominated the game really and it probably could have been more than three.

“That’s not the point of the game but it’s encouraging to know that we are creating chances and things are falling into place nicely.

“We can’t read into it too much, although we are happy with the signs that we are showing.”

Portland’s next friendly comes on Saturday as they travel to Pagham (2pm).

Ross Doidge missed out against Sherborne with a groin problem but is hopeful to play a part.

Goalscorer Beasley fell awkwardly going up for a header in midweek and is nursing a neck injury.

Tom Richardson is set to miss out with a groin strain and Carl Morris has an ankle injury.

“I think it is going to be a real test down there so we are looking forward to it,” Bailey added.

“It’s important that you get tested through pre-season.

“There is no point in coasting through pre-season because you don’t learn anything from it.

“Sometimes you do have to have a game where your backs are against the wall and you are severely tested.”