STEVE Coward insists that the Dorset Senior Trophy is not the main focus for his side this season, but there could be a tasty tie served up should they get past Bournemouth Premier League side Ferndown Sports tomorrow (2.30pm) at the Stalls.

Should Chickerell be successful, and current Dorset Senior League leaders Balti House progress at Blandford United Reserves (also 2.30pm) the pair will be set to do battle again in the trophy early next month.

Chickens’ chief Coward told Echosport: “If we get through it and Balti get through theirs then we get Balti in the next round and it’s always nice to get one over on your local rivals.”

Chickerell should be boosted by the return of Joe Charles to their line-up for tomorrow.

Coward admits he is heading into the relative unknown against Ferndown, who currently occupy fifth spot in their respective league.

He added: “I don’t really know much about them to be honest, really I am more interested in our league.

“It gives a chance for everyone to get minutes under their belts, it’s not the be all and end all for me, if I’m honest, so we will just see how it goes.”

Elsewhere in the first round of the competition, Portland United Reserves host Kangaroos at Grove Corner (3.30pm), and Brid-port Reserves are at home to Wimborne Town Reserves (3pm).