DORCHESTER Town manager Steve Thompson feels that he will have to make a difference in “coaching, work rate and the attitude of the players” rather than spending a big budget this season.

Thompson’s comments were made in reference to the Magpies’ playing budget, which the Dorchester boss admits is “similar, or maybe just above” last season’s purse.

With Thompson also revealing that his resources are well below those of the clubs that finished in the Evo-Stik Southern Premier Division top five last season, the former Yeovil manager still feels mounting a challenge for the play-offs is possible.

He told Echosport: “We’ve got a budget that’s maybe similar or maybe just above what we had last season. I know the budget of the teams in the top five and they’re far in excess of what we’ve got.

“I know what they’ve got and we’re working with far less of a budget, but you can’t give up because of that.

“That doesn’t mean to say we can’t make the play-offs with that budget. You have to feel that you can make a difference in coaching, work rate and the attitude of the players.”

When Thompson does eventually splash the cash, bolstering the Magpies’ strike force is a top priority.

He said: “When you look at a season where your top scorer had eight or nine goals, that has to be an area of improvement.

“I was very disappointed to miss out on someone who I feel would be a real asset to the club, but I have to respect his decision.

“There are players in the leagues below who have done well but they’re contracted – it’s difficult.”