PORTLAND United manager Simon Browne is expecting “a few slings and arrows” during his side’s defence of the Sydenhams Wessex League Premier Division.

The Blues and their new boss begin with a Tuesday evening fixture against Team Solent at Grove Corner (7.45pm) and Browne is encouraged by his team’s off-season exploits.

He told Echosport: “Everything we do from now until the end of the season will be about getting ourselves ready to win games.

“I’ve been encouraged by the way they’ve approached the pre-season games because there’s that confidence from last year. The way they’ve played gives me a bit of a boost.

“Certainly in the Bridport game we were a far better side than they were and that’s the same level we’re playing at, albeit in a different league.”

Asked whether there was any added pressure on him to retain the title this season, Browne believes it is “inevitable”.

“I think it’s inevitable – that’s life! I guess there’s a little bit of pressure but that’s to be expected. I’m not going to be too concerned if we’re not five points clear at the top of the league after 10 games.

“The top teams, whoever they may well be, will be trying to knock us off our perch. It’s difficult to get to the top but it’s even more difficult to stay there.

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“I’m sure there will be a few slings and arrows along the way but I’ll be doing my utmost to do as well as we possibly can this season,” he said.

Commenting on United’s first opponents, Browne is keen for his side to stamp their authority on the match.

He said: “Portland are the defending Wessex League champions. Whatever Team Solent bring we need to let them know they are playing against the league champions and that we mean business like we did last year.

“I’m not going into it expecting anything other than us to put in a good performance and that should result with us coming away with a positive result.”

Browne returns to management after a spell at Wimborne Town, and the Blues boss is eager to take up his position on the sideline again.

“I’m looking forward to getting back in the dugout. Pre-season can be difficult because you seem to spend half your life on the phone.

“Now the season is here all that stuff is done and we’re getting into that routine of games and training,” he added.

Matchday sponsor: Portland Diggers Metal Detecting Club

Match ball: Jan & Dave Camp

Matchday programme: Cove House Inn