Sutton United boss Paul Doswell has already revealed his target for the opening salvo of the new National League South season.
After a month of pre-season, United host Maidstone United on Saturday as the curtain is raised on the real action.
Doswell then takes his side to Havant & Waterlooville (August 11) and Dartford (August 15).
And while admitting pre-season has not been inspiring in terms of results, Doswell rates it far higher than last summer.
He said: “It’s been a good pre-season and we’re in a good place going into Saturday, so much better than this time last year.
“We’ve not pulled up any roots with results, but we’ve really come together as a team and bonded well, and that can count for a lot.
Almost: Academy star Emil Salama went close in Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at home to Bromley in the final pre-season game before this weekend’s curtain raiser Picture: Paul Loughlin
“The trip to Jersey was just right – we had three great training sessions, the match and a good Saturday night of bonding, and now we’re all keen to get going.”
He added: “We’re traditionally slow starters and that will change one day.
“It’s a tough start to the season, but if we can get at least five points on the board, then we’ll be happy.”
United ended the pre-season on Saturday with a 2-0 defeat at home to National League new boys Bromley.
While the result is not troubling Doswell, an injury to Jamie Collins could leave him without the central defender.
“Jamie’s been to hospital with a suspected broken rib, so we’ll have to wait and see,” he said.
“But if that’s the case, we’ll start with Simon [Downer] and Dean [Beckwith].”
Doswell’s summer recruitment has revolved around a host of former Eastleigh players, but it is those from elsewhere that have caught the eye.
“I always knew what to expect from the Eastleigh lads, but Ross [Stearn] and Tom [Bolarinwa] have both really impressed.
“Ross brings a vibrancy to the group, and Tom I can see is going to be a real threat.”
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