Romsey Town lift the curtain on their 2014/15 Sydenhams Wessex League season this weekend with a trip to New Milton Town.

After an upbeat pre-season with many friendly victories, head coach James Phillips and his new management team will get their first taste of competitive action this weekend.

“I’m extremely pleased with how our pre-season has gone so far, both in our matches and in training,” said Phillips.

“The desire to learn and improve has been fantastic and they are all fighting for those opening day shirts.”

New Milton Town finished in 11th place in their first season back in Sydenhams Division One last year after relegation in 2011/12.

Their manager, Callum Brooks – grandson of former England international Johnny Brooks – will have a more settled squad heading into his second season in charge at Fawcetts Field.

“Both the management team and the players are looking forward to kicking off our league campaign at New Milton,” said head coach Phillips.

“It will be a tough game as they are a well-established Wessex side, but we will go into the game with confidence after some very positive pre-season results.”

After their first match of the league season, Romsey’s attention will turn to the FA Cup as they host Wessex Premier side Fareham on August 16 in the extra preliminary round.