BRIDPORT Reserves open their Jewson Dorset Premier League campaign at home to Bournemouth Sports tomorrow (3pm).

Adam Herring’s men have strengthened this summer with the return of local players George Wyrill and Joe Etherington, plus experienced former Westland goalkeeper Mark Cuff.

Cuff comes in after Sam Moggeridge joined Portland United.

The Bees should also be able to exploit extra strength in depth this season after a fruitful summer of recruitment by the first team.

READ MORE: Adam Herring reflects on first year in charge of Bridport Reserves

It means a finish higher than last season’s 15th is the target as Herring embarks on his maiden full DPL season as a manager.

He told the Bridport News: “Pre-season has been a bit hit and miss with teams cancelling friendlies, we’ve played three, won two and drawn one but it’s all looking good.

“A lot of the players have been with the firsts so everyone’s had extra games and minutes. We’ve also got Jim Lukosius on board and he’s put on some good sessions.”

On Bournemouth Sports, who last season finished fourth in the table, Herring said: “We’re obviously expecting a tough game.

“It’s always hit and miss when you’re playing in the summer holidays, with players away on holiday and stuff.

“This is the first time I’ve started a season in the DPL and I don’t think it’s a good time to play one of the top teams at any point.

“We’re looking pretty strong so I’m not too fussed on them, we’re looking at what we’ve got.”

Herring also made no secret of his desire to finish higher up the table.

He said: “All the younger lads are another year older and have a bit more experience, so I’m expecting us to compete a lot more and hopefully be a bit stronger.

“With the first team getting off to a really good start on Saturday, we want to try and get a bit of buzz around our team.”

He added: “The whole squad and club, we’ve got more bodies this year so hopefully we can have a more consistent side.

“With George and Joe both playing, we’ve got a really good core this year.”

Finn Morgan, Toby Mann and Noah Adler miss out this weekend through unavailability.