Fringe players get their chance as Bognor head to Gosport

Injuries to the likes of James Crane, Ashton Leigh and Jason Parish mean Pearce and coach Robbie Blake will shuffle their pack for the game at Privett Park to run the rule over players ahead of the Isthmian premier division league opener at Bishop's Stortford next Saturday.

The Rocks go into the encounter with Shaun Gale's new-look outfit with a record of four wins from four matches in the build-up to the big kick-off -- but Pearce knows Boro will probably provide the biggest test for his charges.

He said: "Gosport have gone well so far and we know it'll be a tough fixture, but we go into the game wanting to play our football and knowing how effective it can be. Obviously, injuries have depleted our side but this in turn provides a chance for others to come in and show what they are about, show that desire to get a place in the team. We're really looking forward to the game."

Meanwhile, a trio of Rocks aces helped kick off proceedings at the launch of the club's new training tops last night (Thursday) after Andy Standen, from the Royal Oak pub, Lagness, stepped in to sponsor the kit. Skipper Harvey Whyte, Tommy Leigh and Brad Lethbridge donned the new shirts, which will be worn by the squad during their twice-weekly workout sessions.

Andy said: "The lads look great in the kit and we're proud to sponsor them and try to help where we can. This club is special and if you're a business in our area I would urge you to come forward and speak to the club about trying to help with sponsorship."

The deal with the Royal Oak comes as more and more businesses are backing the club with advertising boards around the new-look Nye Camp.

Our snap shows commercial manager Dave Robinson posing with the latest to be erected, courtesy of Jon Ivey of Iron Maidens. He said: "If you're keen to showcase your firm pitch side call me on 07876497929."