WEYMOUTH will have to step it up a notch to overcome Sherborne Seconds tomorrow, according to Paul Harding.

The head coach is anticipating a very tough encounter against the North Dorset outfit in what will be his side’s first competitive appearance at Monmouth Avenue (3pm).

Talking ahead of the Dorset & Wilts One South clash, Harding said: “We had two tough games against them last year. We drew 5-5 at their place and then they beat us by a single point at home so we know exactly what to expect.

“Both teams have started the season well but even though we have not lost yet I think we will probably have to step it up another notch tomorrow if we are to keep that unbeaten record going.

“It is our first home game of the season and hopefully we can put in a good performance.”

In regards to team news, Harding welcomes back former Sherborne man Max Vallance, as well as Dave Oakford and George Carter.

Bridport head coach Mark Botten is hoping his men can build on last week’s Dorset & Wilts Plate success over Verwood this weekend.

The Blues racked up 79 points in the triumph but are likely to face much stiffer opposition tomorrow in the form of league rivals Warminster, despite their current position at the bottom of the Dorset & Wilts One South table.

Botten said: “The Plate victory last weekend sets us up nicely for tomorrow’s home game with Warminster (3pm) and hopefully we can keep the momentum going in our league campaign.

“We’ve won one and lost two so far in the league but our position could be better had the luck of the bounce gone our way.”

Rob Sullivan is expected to return to the Bridport squad this week. Botten added: “I did not want to risk Rob last Saturday but he will probably be in the squad this weekend and we might bring him on in the second half.”

Dorchester will return to action at Blandford in Southern Counties South following a free weekend.

The county town outfit beat Trowbridge last time out and will no doubt be keen to continue the good form as they aim to break into the top five.

Following last weekend’s defeat at Poole in the Dorset & Wilts Plate, Puddletown return to league action with a visit to Wincanton (3pm).

Captain Tom Yeatman and flanker Martin Spicer are set to return for the Villagers who, with a full strength squad available, will be keen to get back to winning ways against the newly-promoted side.

Swanage & Wareham will be out to climb further up the table in South West One East when they host lowly Olney.

* There is still time to enter this Sunday’s Piddle Dash (11am) at Puddletown RFC – a 6km sponsored run for men and boys in aid of Prostate Action and the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust.

Full details are available at puddletownrfc.org.uk