MANAGER Richard Luffman is backing Alresford Town to be one of - if not THE fittest team - in the Sydenhams Premier Division this term.

To say the Magpies have been put through their pre-season paces would be an understatement.

For almost a month the boys from Arlebury Park have had paratroopers drilling them three times a week.

That has come down to once a week now that friendly games have started, but the players' latest endurance test took them running up St Catherine's Hill, near Winchester.

Louise Adams, an ex-RAF officer who runs Parafit, Winchester, is overseeing the drills.

According to Luffman, the results have been dramatic.

"There's not an ounce of fat on any of the lads now," he smiled.

"They're in excellent shape, they're all fit as a fiddle."

Alresford have won the race to sign forward Matt Andrews but, on the debit side, new defender Ross Carmichael is trying his luck on a dual-signing with Southern Premier outfit Dorchester Town.

Andrews, an ex-Fareham, Horndean and Petersfield Town striker, put pen to paper after a pleasing 2-1 friendly win over Hartley Wintney, settled by goals from Steve Hall and Simon Everett.

“We beat off Andover Town and a couple of other clubs to sign him,” said Luffman.

While it’s disappointing for the Magpies to lose Carmichael – a Sydenhams Premier champion with Portland United last term – Luffman understands the player’s reasons for going.

“He knows a lot of Dorchester players and this is his last chance to play at that level,” he said.

“He’s done it in the right way and we’re happy he’s got the move to Dorchester.

“If things work out for him, then he will stay there and play Southern League football.

“If not, we will welcome him back with open arms.”