BRIDPORT assistant-manager Kevin Leigh spoke highly of Shepton Mallet ahead of their trip to Somerset in the Toolstation Western League Premier Division tonight (7.30pm).

Leigh, who expects another testing assignment at a top-six side, will continue to deputise for boss Jamie Manley, who serves the second of a four-game stadium ban.

Bridport are going in search of their third away league win this season, but Leigh admitted Mallet will provide a stern examination of his side.

He said: "They've got a good set of players up there, they're team players making it happen for everybody.

"They do play good football, especially when they're at home. They're where they are in the league because they deserve to be and have had some good wins."

He added: "Defensively we haven't been playing well for the last few weeks, and it doesn't help missing (games) through waterlogged pitches.

"They cancelled our reserves' game (on Saturday) because there's water all over the pitch, so it is frustrating."

Striker Tony Pinder and centre-back Ryan Gall should return but forward Lewis Clarke (calf) is out. Tom Salter may be in contention after unavailability.