‘Tough’ starts for Magpies and Terras (From Dorset Echo)

‘Tough’ starts for Magpies and Terras

8:30am Saturday 4th July 2009 in

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BOTH Roy O’Brien and Matty Hale are expecting a “tough” start to the new Blue Square South season after the fixture list was revealed yesterday.

O’Brien’s Dorchester Town begin with a home match against St Albans City on Saturday, August 8 before travelling to newly-promoted sides Staines Town (August 11) and Dover Athletic (August 15).

Weymouth boss Hale meanwhile, will see his men visit Lewes on the opening day in what was a Blue Square Premier fixture last season.

Following that the Terras play host to Eastleigh (August 11) and Bishop’s Stortford (August 15).

Hale said: “There are some tough games for us early on. I know that Lewes went through a tough time last season so it’ll be interesting to see where they are with things.

“At the moment though it’s more about what we do. It’s not an easy start to the season but it’s key that we get our team together, know how we’re going to play and make sure we’re strong enough.”

Magpies’ manager O’Brien said: “It’s a tough start for us, in fact the first 10 games are pretty tough, but you have got to play these teams at some point so it’s important you prepare well in pre-season to be able to win the tough games.

“We don’t really know what to expect with Dover and Staines but all we can do is concentrate on our own team and how we apply ourselves.”

Weymouth and Dorchester will renew their rivalry on Boxing Day at the Jewson Stadium and then on New Year’s Day for the return fixture at the Wessex Stadium.

Speaking about the highly anticipated derbies, O’Brien added: “The interest will be there for the whole season and both teams will be looking at how the other is doing.

“If both clubs can get off to a good start then I’m sure the interest will keep growing.

“Games between Dorchester and Weymouth always attract a bumper crowd, which can only be healthy for both clubs. I’m sure Matty Hale will want to win the games, but so do I.”

Hale said: “The games are going to be good for us, for Dorchester and of course the fans. Everyone’s looking forward to it, me included.”

* Pick up today's Echo to see the full list of fixtures.

* Dorchester’s home friendly with AFC Bournemouth has been moved to Tuesday, July 28.