STUART Douglas believes there is no need to press the panic button despite Dorchester’s dismal start to the season.

The Magpies have lost all of their opening four games in Blue Square Bet South but striker Douglas, who joined the county town side this summer, has seen enough in his team-mates’ efforts to suggest that a change in fortune is merely around the corner.

The 32-year-old said: “We have been unfortunate. Had we been comprehensively beaten in all four games then you would start to worry but the game against Eastleigh was the only one we deserved to lose.

“I know it sounds like a broken record but we were the better team against both Bromley and Basingstoke and we also had the lion’s share against Woking.

“We’ve just got to keep doing what we are doing because things will turn in our favour.

“I’ve been in this situation before and the most important thing is that, as a team, we keep our belief intact.

“We are creating chances but for one reason or another we’re not capitalising on them.

“It’s too early to start worrying and pressing the panic button. We’re being led by a good manager in Ashley Vickers and things can only get better.”

Douglas, who played alongside boss Ashley Vickers at rivals Weymouth, helped both Newport County and Bath City achieve promotion to Blue Square Bet Premier last term.

And he has compared the team spirit at Twerton Park to the one running through the Magpies’ dressing room.

Douglas added: “At Bath last year I believe it was our team spirit that got us promoted and the one thing I’ve noticed most at Dorchester is a similar team spirit. The boys are very close and that’s half the battle itself.

“As long as we have that togetherness results will change.

“It can be soul destroying to play well and come away with nothing – it’s a bitter pill to swallow. The good thing is that we’ve still got 38 games left to play. I’m 100 per cent certain we will get out of this situation.”

The former Luton Town forward has so far made just one start since scoring five goals in pre-season, and he is keen to build on that number.

“I don’t know any player who doesn’t want to play every game,” he said. “If I had my own way I would be playing every game. But it’s a team game and I’m happy to play whatever part the gaffer wants me to play.

“It’s rare, in any league, to see the same 11 players play every game of the season.

“For me, the important thing is that I feel fit. Over the last couple of years I’ve had some injuries which have hampered my performances and appearances. But I feel fit and ready to play.”

Reflecting on his decision to sign for the Avenue Stadium outfit, the qualified physio added: “I know Ash well and I know what his plans are. I want to be challenging for things as I’m not content to just watch the season pass by.

“When I spoke to Ash prior to coming here his goal was to ensure this would be a successful season for the club. All we need is a result to go our way.”

* Boxing legend Frank Bruno will host a sportsman’s dinner at the Prince’s Marquee on Friday, September 3 (7pm).

The former WBC heavyweight champion will be the guest speaker, sharing tales of his time in the ring.

Comedian Al Reed will also be on show with guests also enjoying a three-course meal.

To book tickets contact 262451 or 07971204288.