Promotion the goal for Bexhill

The Polegrove outfit have drafted in a raft of players, several of whom came from Division One neighbours Sidley United, over the summer months and they surely possess the talent to escape the dreaded lower regions they've occupied in recent times.

Manager Billy Trivett said: "The feeling's good. I think it is going to be the best season for a while. We've got the players there, we've made some good signings. Pre-season has just been superb for us and we've got a bit of quality around the place.

"Promotion is the target along with the 12 others! But I think it's a realistic one and I think we're quite confident about it. A lot of our players have played at a higher level and I think we've got quite a nice balance. I think it will be crucial getting off to a good start and we don't have this long run of away games." United expect to be at full strength for the trip to Storrington on Saturday August 21.

They rounded-off their pre-season friendly matches with an impressive 6-1 defeat of East Sussex Premier League outfit Punnetts Town on Saturday. Dave Carey (2), Mark Funnell (2), Darren Witham and Wes Tate found the net. The second string lost 4-1 at Saltdean United on Thursday night, a match in which Damien White (formerly Damien Wheeler) was on target. White again found the net along with Greg Collingham in the 3-2 reverse at Eastbourne Borough under-18s on Monday evening while Saturday's game at Ninfield United ended in a 1-1 draw.

United's cause has been helped by securing a year-long sponsorship deal with local accountancy practice McPherson & Partners.

Alan Buontempo of the backers said: "We are very proud to be associated with our local football club and we wish the team every success for the forthcoming season."