BRIDPORT have experienced player movement both ways this week after signing attacking midfielder Stefanos Stavrianos, while letting Jake Owen and Toby Diaz exit the Bees.

Former Weymouth Under-23s man Stavrianos has joined from Dorset Premier League (DPL) side Balti Sports.

Meanwhile, Diaz has moved to fellow Step 6 side Hamworthy United and Owen has stepped down to DPL level to play for Yeovil-based Westland Sports.

Bridport have already confirmed the signings of Isaac and Noah House after they elected to leave Beaminster come the end of the 2023/24 season.

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And the Bees are also interested in signing Dorchester Sports striker Dan Sheehy after his goalscoring form in the DPL last season, where he finished with 14 strikes in 29 games.

Explaining the arrival of Stavrianos, who featured in the 2-0 loss to Portland United on Saturday, Herbst told Echosport: “Stef came on second half, did really well and he’s signed for us this season.

“He messaged me and I said: ‘Yeah, come along’.

“He’s trained really well, fitted in well and he’s a good player. It’s a big plus for us.

“Toby’s gone to Hamworthy United so it counters that, I’m happy.

“He can play in the 10, up front or along the wing. It’s a good option to have.”

Herbst feels the House brothers, who have goalscoring reputations down the road at Beaminster, will prove to be big hits for the Bees.

He said: “Noah and Isaac did not want to leave Beaminster in the lurch last season but they’ve definitely signed.

“They will both be a massive plus. We’re lacking another striker to go alongside Solly (Ayunga) and Isaac can definitely be the answer.

“Dan, I think he’s going to be involved next week as well.”

However, after previously stating his squad from last season would remain intact, Herbst is now dealing with the loss of two versatile players in Owen and Diaz.

“It’s one of those. You’re not going to keep everyone. I thought everyone was going to stay but obviously it hasn’t worked out like that.

“Good luck to them both. I want players that want to be here, so I just wished them well and that’s all I can do.”

On Owen, Herbst added: “He’s obviously wanted to go.

“Our midfield is so strong. He’s a great talent and has played at a really, really good level.

“Going to Westland he’s stepping down a level and it’s disappointing because he should be in our squad, he’s a great player.

“It’s frustrating to lose him but I want players who want to be here. They know our aims, it’s quite obvious what they are.

“I want everyone on the same page, so it’s one of those. We actually play Westland in pre-season!”

Bridport host Beer Albion in their second pre-season friendly tomorrow (7.30pm).