SALISBURY FC manager Steve Claridge is excited for the season ahead, after seeing his side start their pre-season with a 6-0 win against Lymington and a 1-1 draw at Winchester City.

Claridge said: "I knew I had signed some quality players, but it was the way they applied themselves at Winchester, on what was a very lively pitch. I think our fans are going to enjoy watching us play this year."

Talking of quality players, the latest two to join the Whites are striker Dan Fitchett and centre half Matt Partridge.

Fitchett, was with Salisbury City a few years ago and joins from Wealdstone, having also played for Aldershot and Wycombe Wanderers.

Partridge played in League Two for both Dagenham and Redbridge and Newport County. He then had spells at Basingstoke Town and most recently was at Hungerford.

Claridge said: "They are two great signings and I made it work within the budget, which is great."

Next for Whites in their pre-season is a home game against Thatcham on Saturday (3pm) and AFC Bournemouth on Tuesday night (7.45pm).

Looking forward to the games, the Salisbury boss said: "Thatcham have kept most of their FA Vase winning side, so it should be a good game and Bournemouth will sent a strong team, which will be a good test."

Last Friday, new signing George Barker led the way with a brace and there were also goals for Jack Stanley, Zach Kotwica, Flavio Tavares and Charlie Cooper in their 6-0 win over Lymington.

New boy Pablo Haysham was the man on target in the 1-1 draw at Winchester City.

Salisbury have moved their final pre-season game forward and will now play Bristol Rovers on Friday August 3 (7.45pm).