PORTLAND United kick off their Sydenhams Wessex League campaign with what manager Nick Preston describes as a 'tricky' trip across the Solent.

The Blues travel to the Isle of Wight tomorrow to take on Cowes Sports at Westwood Park (kick off 3pm).

But while Preston admits it's a difficult opener for his men, he's also glad to be getting the 'overseas' journey out of the way early.

He explained: "We've been to Isle of Wight in the middle of winter before and crossing the Solent wasn't too pleasant on that occasion. It's a tricky game to be handed first up but I think we'd all rather be

going there in August then

say the January or February."

He added: "Cowes are one of those sides who only ever finish about mid-table or lower but they cause a few upsets in the process. They gave us a right couple of battles last season and I'' expecting no favours again.

"I don't what sort of changes they've made during the summer, but chances are they'll be as stubborn as ever and fairly lively up front."

With the arrival at Grove Corner of Terras goalscoring legend David Laws during the close season, expectations levels have predictably risen amongst both supporters and committee members.

However, Preston says he feels no extra pressure because of it and claims the opposite is in fact true.

"Of course our fans expect us to do well," he added, "they always do. But signing David should take the pressure off us in many ways because there's no question he'll score a lot of goals at this level.

"He and James Reeve are going to be a lethal weapon for us this year and I can't wait to see them in competitive action. It's been a good pre-season for us with wins over Weymouth and Bridport and we'll be going to Cowes in really confident mood.

"It's important we get off to a good start which is something every manager will be saying right now. A win would obviously be ideal but I'll be happy as long as we don't lose."

After being rocked by the news that Stuart Heath will miss the season because of a ruptured cruciate knee ligament, Preston is now sweating on the fitness of Mark Carter who is unlikely to travel because of a hamstring problem.

Also unavailable because of family commitments are influential defender Andy Turrell and striker Chris Naylor.

Blues: Myers, Bews, Rodgers, Wallis, J Dailey, Reader, Whalley, Mason, Perkins, Evans, L Dailey, Tizard, Reeve, Laws.