9:03am Friday 21st December 2012
By Adam Summers
LOCAL bragging rights will be at stake at Grove Corner tomorrow when Portland United lock horns with Chickerell United (2pm).
The two clubs have enjoyed a huge rivalry in the Magna Dorset Premier League in recent years and both bosses cannot wait for this latest serving.
Chris Wilson, whose Portland side sit second in the table, just a point off the top with three games in hand, said: “Bragging rights are there to play for tomorrow and we’re going to fight tooth and nail to get the three points.
“We are confident going into every game without being over confident.
“We believe we’ve got the ability within the squad to get a result and that’s not being arrogant.
“There is nothing wrong with a bit of self-belief and honesty.”
With home advantage, the Blues will be seen as clear favourites this weekend but Maurice Welch is backing his fifth-placed Chickens to make it difficult.
He added: “It’s a big one for us and for them.
“They beat Wincanton last Saturday and they’ll want to keep their foot on the pedal.
“They’ve got a good side with some good players but we know all about them and the way they play. We need to get our tactics right and take the game to them.
“We need to set our stall out and take it as it comes – it will be an interesting game.
“It doesn’t matter where you are in the league going into a game like this.
“Bragging rights will certainly be there for the taking.”
The wet weather could also play a big part this weekend with postponements being anticipated across the region.
One man not expecting to see action is Jake Richmond, whose side are scheduled to travel to Swanage Town & Herston (2pm).
The Weymouth Reserves joint-boss said: “I wouldn’t be surprised if the game was called off early.
“We went there a few weeks ago and it was only just about playable then, so with the rain we have had this week it’s looking extremely doubtful for tomorrow.
“If it is called off it will be a shame because we are on a good run at the minute, but to-be honest I think a lot of the games will probably be off this weekend, leaving everyone in the same boat.”
Another side set to be on the road this weekend is Bridport Reserves. They are due to take on Hamworthy United Reserves tomorrow (2pm) but that is another fixture that could be in doubt.
* To stay up to date with the status of these local matches visit dorsetecho.co.uk/sport
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