WEYMOUTH manager David Oldfield admitted he is “delighted” to be playing against local Dorset teams in pre-season ahead of tonight’s trip to Bridport (7.30pm).

The Terras’ summer began on Saturday with a 2-1 win over Portland United and this evening’s visit to St Mary’s Field represents a step up in four divisions for Bridport.

Both friendlies fall in line with Weymouth’s renewed aspiration to build a footballing community in the area, with a Dorset Fans Festival scheduled for Saturday, July 30 against rivals Dorchester.

In the build-up to the match, Oldfield was asked by Echosport whether he would field a more inexperienced side given the huge difference in league level.

READ MORE: David Oldfield pleased with Portland workout

He replied: “We haven’t got a younger side, we’ve got some 23s and it will be a similar group (to Saturday) I would suggest.

“The level isn’t the point, we’re not going there because it’s four leagues (the difference), we’re going because it’s Bridport, they’re important to us in the area and community.

“And, for us to get some work, some real stressful competition that tests us. Then, we have another on Saturday (at Poole) that will loom large from there.”

Speaking to the Terras’ media team, Oldfield added: “We need to maintain our attitude, our manner, our personality, our character and pass the ball.

“We know Bridport is going to be a really good test for us. We’re delighted to be playing the local teams.

“I know it’s happened before but it hasn’t happened with me before. I want to wrap that up in a change of mentality for us and try and drive ourselves forward.

“To play Portland, then Bridport and more local games after that is a really exciting adventure for us.”

Bridport manager Edgar Marcu has no trepidation about facing a National League South side.

He said: “It will be a very, very good test and we’re looking forward to that game.

“The players are doing the right things, they’re playing the right football. It’s just better each game.”

Matteus Tomas is the only expected absentee for Bridport through unavailability, while Weymouth are understood to have come through Saturday unscathed.