PORTLAND United begin their pre-season campaign this evening with a trip to Shaftesbury to take on Sturminster Newton (7.45pm).

The Cherries have moved up from Step 7 to the Western League Division One for 2024/25.

Portland view the north Dorset side as mirroring many of the physical tests they will encounter next season.

And with this evening’s game the first of a hat-trick on the road for the Blues, manager Kyle Critchell is merely looking to gauge fitness and build up match minutes.

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He told Echosport: “The first three friendlies for us it’s about getting minutes into the lads’ legs and giving opportunities to some of the under-18s and reserve players.

“Also, you want to do your best and install a winning mentality. The first three games are about integration.

“The last three are about narrowing down who may be starting and who may not, more tactical elements so we’re fully prepared for the season. We’re kind of splitting it into two threes.”

Elaborating on Portland’s choice of opposition, Critchell added: “They’re a typical Western League side.

“Very physical, strong and organised. It’s probably a similar match-up to some of the Wessex League games we face.

“We felt those ingredients were the perfect first friendly for us, it won’t be easy and one that will challenge our whole squad.”

And Critchell has been pleasantly surprised with the conditioning of his squad upon their return from the summer break.

“I would say they’re much further ahead than what I have previously worked in and played under,” he added.

“Lads these days look after themselves a lot better than I did when I was younger.

“It also helps that the majority of our squad is under the age of 23 and that’s no disrespect to the older ones because they’ve come in fit too.

“They’re all driven, they’re all hungry and football is something they really prioritise, which has been really helpful for us.”

Crit Clarke, Harrison Bruton and Joe Wickham are Portland’s only absentees through unavailability.

Elsewhere, Portland's friendly at Bridport on Saturday has been moved forward to 2pm to avoid a clash with England v Switzerland at Euro 2024.