ALBION V REBELS TONIGHT

Worthing boss Alan Pook is delighted to have this chance to maintain his squad's mental application as they attempt to bind together amid an exacting start to the newly formed Ryman League Premier Division.

Pook said: "I'm not signing any new players because I want to work on those I've got. We were forced to bring in several new faces to cover pre-season injuries and suspensions. We're still getting some disappointing Jekyll & Hyde performances from the team but that goes with the territory. The newness of players to each shows up more in defence than attack. We need to get players fitter.

"A lot of hard work is going on behind the scenes and the kind of behaviour I saw from some supporters on Monday, with people picking on the coaching staff, was childish. They're not true supporters. The fans should be encouraging the players but overall, our support home and away has been excellent.

"We've not been getting any luck. The last two goals we've conceded came from deflections, one from a free kick that should have been given our way, and Wealdstone beat us with a harsh penalty.

"But I'm very happy with my main signings, Phil Ruggles and Marc Pullan. On Monday, Stuart Holmes was unvailable and we missed Clay Lamont but Andy Lutwyche came in for the first time this season and had a great game.

"We're not far away now, though. Championships are not won or lost in August or September.

"There's little to choose between the teams in this division, it's never been more than the odd goal and it will be tight until Christmas. We made huge steps last season, maybe three years' progress in one and it's tough at the top."

Worthing's next games: Tonight (Thursday) v Albion (friendly); Saturday v Cheshunt (home, 3); Wednesday: v Eastleigh (away, 7.45).