Football: 'We belong in the Dorset Premier League', says Balti boss Nott

Nott’s men began life in the top tier of Dorset football in style as they blew away the side that finished the 2014/15 campaign in third place.

And while he knows not all of his team’s games this season will be as comfortable, Nott was proud of the way his men made their mark.

“It’s not like we are going to be challenging for the title because of one game, but it was nice to prove to a few people that we deserve to be in this league,” he said.

“That three points has given us even more confidence and it shows we belong in the Dorset Premier League.

“We’ve got to make sure it’s not a one-off and not take anything for granted.

“And every game this season is going to be tough so we know we can’t get carried away.”

One of the things that pleased Nott the most last time out was how his charges coped without several key figures through injury.

John Litherland could be back for tomorrow’s first home game of the season against Hamworthy United Reserves at Cranford Avenue (3pm).

However, Nott will continue to deputise in goal for his brother Andy, who is set to be out for the rest of the month with ankle ligament damage.

Club captain Charlie Kenderdine (foot), Lewis Ironside (ankle), Karl Dean (thigh) and Simon Proffitt (unavailable) are still missing.

Elsewhere, Bridport Reserves entertain Swanage Town & Herston at St Mary’s Field (3pm) following a 4-0 loss away to Shaftesbury Town on Wednesday.

Weymouth Reserves, who go to FC Milborne tomorrow (3pm) for a friendly, won 4-1 at Swanage on the same night.

Trailing 1-0 after 45 minutes, the Terras hit back to claim all three points thanks to goals from Mitchell Speechley-Price, Matt Head and two for Dan Peart.

“For whatever reason we are not starting games particularly well so that’s something we’ve got to work on,” said Weymouth boss Bradley Asagba.

“But I don’t think many teams are going to come away from there with a 4-1 win.”