Match Preview – Bridport (A) – Tuesday 12th July – 19:30
By Robert Santonna
It has been 3 days since the Portland game. Since then, I have had time to think about what I would like to write today. I think the big message from the Portland game is that the result was not entirely reflective of the performance. I thought Harrison Bruton and Tommy Scott looked capable between the sticks, hopefully we can see both of them further testing themselves tonight. Our three new centre backs looked right at home in a David Oldfield back line. Dan Matsuzaka sounded like a real leader on the pitch. Constantly in conversation with his fellow defenders. Instructing and guiding whilst leading with a great example. I’m not sure I saw him lose a header! His former housemate and teammate Harry Kyprianou looked a force to be reckoned with. He had quality and composure at both ends of the pitch. Showing he has the versatility of playing wherever he is needed.
Former Cherries Jack Seddon and Luke Nippard fitted in nicely and looked the part. It was difficult to assess the defenders as despite Portland scoring, they didn’t really test us often. Moving further up the pitch, I thought it was an interesting decision when I saw Cam Murray playing as a deep lying playmaker, instead of the rocketing up and down the pitch he tends to do. He looked like he has the capability to control the game, it will be interesting to see where he is positioned tonight.
Now a word on the trialists. We had 8 trialists in our squad on Saturday and 4 of those were in the starting line-up. Trialist 10 was impressive playing on the right. His electric pace combined with quick feet made fantastic viewing for the fans in attendance. Trialist 14, an acquaintance of Omar Mussa, played well in the midfield. He actually did play almost exactly like Mussa used to. He had undeniable skill on the ball and had great all round ability, however he was caught on the ball a few times. Now who does that remind us of! Trialist 7 scored an absolute wondergoal in the first half. He, like all the other trialists looked totally capable of keeping up with the other lads. Hopefully those that weren’t at the Portland game can see what I am talking about tonight!
Today’s opponents!
Bridport is not often a part of our pre-season schedule. We have only played them 55 times since 1891! We boast a good record over them, having won 42 times, drawing 8 and losing just 5. One of those losses came recently as we exited the Dorset senior cup following a 2-0 defeat in 2017. Although many players and managers have been associated with both clubs over the years. Perhaps one of the most notable is Trevor Senior who, following his tenure as player-manager at the Terras in the mid 1990’s, enjoyed two spells at the west Dorset club.
Last season they finished rock bottom of their league. Finishing on just 4 points and having a goal difference of -168! To put it in perspective, the team above them finished 24 points above them and had 134 higher goal difference than them. Daniel Baggs and Michael Hill both scored 4 goals each last season. So I guess if there are any players to watch. Watch them!
Players to watch from The Terras:
I think there are a few players the fans should look out for in today’s fixture. Firstly, Trialists 10, 14 and 7, Matsuzaka and Ahkeem Rose (if fit).
As the season fast approaches, I’m sure we will see some different trialists as the games progress. So keep an eye out for new faces!
I watched David Oldfield’s post game interview. He insisted that the result was not what mattered and that he was thrilled to be playing other local sides. This game will be no different in his head. I’m sure we will see another top class performance as the lads build towards what makes to be a captivating season.
SUPPORTER INFORMATION
Tickets are available on the gate at Bridport, priced at £4 Adult and £2 Concession
