BRIDPORT boss Jamie Manley is confident of causing promotion-chasing Bitton “problems” in their away Toolstation Western League Premier Division clash on Saturday (3pm).

Manley’s opinion is based on the Bees putting together a solid 90 minutes, without mistakes – a performance he believes is on the horizon as the St Mary’s Field outfit continues to improve.

Bridport go into the game in 18th, some 14 points and 10 places behind the Ton, leading to what Manley describes as the “third toughie in a row” after 3-1 defeats to Plymouth Parkway and Exmouth.

He said: “We knew it was going to be a tough run but against Parkway and Exmouth we showed up, played some really good football and competed against those sides.

“As long as we do the same against Bitton, put in the same amount of effort, cut out the silly mistakes and take our chances in front of goal, I think we’ll go and cause some problems.

“We have had some positives to come out of the last few games. We just need to sort our final ball out, make sure there’s a bit more quality when we have time on it.”

Bridport have also bolstered their defensive ranks with the signing of versatile right-back and midfielder Ben Haines from Shepton Mallet.

Manley, who revealed Mallet had waived the seven-day approach, said: “Week in, week out we’re getting stronger. We’ve just signed Ben from Shepton Mallet, which I’m pleased about.

“He’ll be coming into the squad this week. He’s a full-back, right-back and can play in midfield if needs be.

“We managed to get that signing sorted out, which is good. To be fair, I had him last year when I was at Chard and he’s been at Bridport before.

“He’s done alright at Shepton this year, so he’ll be a big plus for us. We have been putting round pegs in square holes, especially along the back.

“Now, we’ve got the defence in and lads playing where they should be. Hopefully it will make a lot of difference – that was pleasing to get it sorted out.”

He added: “He was at Bridport when Adam Fricker took over. I know Ben, what he’s all about and he’s the type of player I want at the football club.”

“It’s a big positive for us and he wanted to come to us. We only want players that want to play for Bridport.”

Tom Richardson and Dec Cornish are unavailable for the Bees.