PORTLAND United Veterans have decided not to enter this season's DCFA over-35s competition and instead will play a number of friendlies.

The Blues' player-manager Nick Preston said: "Last season we had to withdraw midway through the season, mainly due to the bad weather but also at times we just could not raise a side.

"However, all the lads are still very keen to pull on their boots again, so we have decided to arrange a few friendlies to keep us all active and competitive. I don't think that feeling ever leaves you.

"Our first match is against Weymouth Victoria tonight at 7:30pm at Grove Corner and the clubhouse will be open afterwards.

Preston added: "The squad is much the same as the last few seasons with current Portland chairman Pete Turrell lining up with former first-team managers like Andy Mason and myself, and current assistant-manager Brendan King."

Blues: Preston, Whyton, King, Evans, A Turrell, P Turrell, Greeno, Mason, Rodgers, Carter, Reader, Holmes, Lewis, Symes.