PORTLAND boss Kyle Critchell is 'optimistic' ahead of this weekend's season opener.

The Blues take on Poole-based side Hamworthy Recreation in the FA Cup  on Saturday, August 3 as the new campaign kicks-off at the Camp and Satherley.

Critchell has been pleased with the team's pre-season results and is 'optimistic' of the season ahead.

Speaking to Echosport, he said: "I think pre-season was hugely successful.

"We brought in the the lads we wanted and that fit around the ethos the club has in bringing in young players.

"We are optimistic and we want to continue to bat above where we should be and also continue to have a pathway of developing players."

With three wins, one draw and just one defeat during pre-season, the Blues boss can now turn his attention to the season's first game against Hamworthy - an opposition he will not be taking lightly.

He added: "I know they will be well organised and they score a lot of goals and have signed some very good players.

"It is a bit of cliché but it will be a 50-50 tie and a bit of a derby so it should make for a good game."

Critchell will be without two players though with defender Connor Callow out for a couple of months with knee ligament damage and Joe Wickham is also unavailable.

The Blues boss added: "We are going to be without Connor and Joe two but I am excited exited to get back to the Camp and Satherley after a few games away.

"I am hoping there is a good crowd and we will try and get a result in our favour.