Football

MENTAL strength is required to beat Hallen and keep Bridport in the Screwfix Direct Western League according to boss Kevin Donovan.

The Bees find themselves second from bottom for the first time in six weeks and now know that only a win at St Mary's Field tomorrow (3pm) will do.

Welton take to the field against Torrington at the same time after inching past Bridport on goal difference by beating Bishop Sutton on Wednesday night.

Therefore Bridport need a better result than Welton to get back to safety, or if both clubs win it will be Sutton who take the fall on goal difference.

Donovan however, knows that his side must focus on one thing and that is getting maximum points from their high-flying Gloucester opponents.

He said: "It will be a test of the players' mental strength and discipline.

"Hopefully now we have to do it the players will respond."

The Bees' chief took the players through the tactics for the game at training last night and is preparing to play a defensive game.

Although it will come as a surprise to many fans his reasoning is absolutely clear.

"The defensive style of play is to stop Hallen breaking us down easily," he said.

"One goal in the final minute will save as just as much as a 5-0 victory.

"It might surprise people but we are not going to score a bucket load of goals so we must keep the game tight.

Donovan is also hoping the players will take a leaf out of Portland United's book.

The Sydenhams Wessex League side escaped relegation by producing the goods when it really counted - however late on in the season.

Donovan said: "We can take encouragement from Portland United's efforts.

"They possibly carry a bigger goal threat than we do but defensively we are stronger when we keep our shape and discipline."

Dave Newland has returned to South Africa, Nick Stavri is out injured and Chris Armstrong is unavailable but the chief will welcome back Simon Austin.

He has also hinted that the local players in the squad are likely to feature heavily.

Bridport (from): Peters, Taylor, Leach, Copeland, Ritchie, Austin, Linney, M Lock, Wise, Hitchcock, Tony Cunningham, Flann, Gawen, Tim Cunningham