Baffins hoping to open new clubhouse in style

Louis Bell’s troops travel to Bournemouth Poppies in Wessex League premier division (3pm) and bid to bounce back to winning ways.

Then, on Sunday, they are expecting a bumper crowd as a Baffins XI take on a Pompey Charity squad (midday) after they unveil their new £100,000 new Kendall Stadium clubhouse.

Bell is optimistic there will be celebrations all round.

The Baffins boss said: ‘Sunday should be a fantastic occasion and the culmination of a lot of hard work.

‘The amount of time and effort put in by Tony Male and Steve Cripps is astonishing.

‘We won’t be stopping here either as it is only one step in moving the club forward.

‘Since moving into Wessex League premier division we have regularly had over 100 people coming through the gate.’

Ian Saunders has urged AFC Portchester to continue to show their character against Blackfield & Langley at the Blanchard Wells Stadium.

The visitors are second in the division and will pose a big test.

The Royals, however, are on a good run of form – despite having a number of experienced players missing for the clash.

Saunders has praised the youngsters who have filled in admirably.

‘We have shown we can compete against the best – even with key players missing,’ the Royals boss said.

‘The lads who have come in have been fantastic and long may it continue.

‘We will have to make sure we are right at it for this game because Blackfield are one of the most complete units in our division.’

Fareham Town welcome Lymington Town to Cams Alders.

Manager Pete Stiles is delighted that the arrival of Craig Hardy helped strengthen his rearguard.

‘Since Craig arrived from Portchester he has helped sort our defence out,’ the Reds boss said.

‘Before we looked like conceding every time our opponents attacked.

‘His no-nonsense leadership is making a difference.’

Petersfield Town are looking to restore some pride at Bashley.

The Rams are bidding to improve after suffering a disappointing 6-0 home defeat against Newport last weekend.

Dave Birmingham’s Horndean side face a tough trip to Bemerton Heath Harlequins.