FOLLOWING a positive pre-season, Taunton Town begin their Evo-Stik League campaign with a trip to Winchester City tomorrow, kick-off 3pm.

The encounter marks the first competitive game in charge for manager Leigh Robinson and his recently appointed assistant manager Martyn Rogers – see page 100 – who will be hoping to steer Town to opening day success.

However the fixture represents a stiff test against a side who have regained their Southern League place after winning the Wessex League by a clear 14 points last season.

Taunton have won seven out of their eight friendlies this summer to boost confidence ahead of the curtain raiser but Robinson is fully aware of the challenges ahead.

He said: “I am really pleased with how pre-season has gone and how our squad is shaping up.

“Despite our success in pre-season I am well aware that we need to be patient with this team as we have brought in a lot of new players and they need time to gel.”

The Peacocks have seen an influx of new faces to the squad with many likely to be on the team coach to Hampshire.

A quartet of players have been signed from Willand Rovers, namely striker Dean Stamp, midfielder Rob Norrish and defenders Ben Mammola and Dave Hambly, while winger Craig Herrod has joined from Street and centre half Neil Peek from Bridgwater Town.

Former Torquay United full back TJ Lang has signed after a spell playing in Spain although his appearance on Saturday will depend on international clearance, and former goalkeeper Connor Sidley-Adams has re-joined after leaving Taunton early last season. Many of the squad from last season have also remained including Simon Ingram, Rodney Marsh, Owen Irish and Raith Plant although striker Corey Lewis will miss Saturday’s game due to holiday.

On Tuesday evening Taunton are in action at Wordsworth Drive for their first home league game against Poole Town (7.45pm).

The Dorset side lost out to Gosport Borough in the Divisional play-off final last season and are among the title favourites this time around.