Expectations of a promotion challenge for Hampton & Richmond Borough may have been raised this season, but boss Alan Dowson expects nothing less from the forthcoming Ryman Premier League campaign.

The Beavers completed their pre-season programme with a 1-1 draw with Salford City at the Beveree on Saturday ahead of tomorrow’s season opener at Harrow Borough.

Dowson performed the great escape last term and saved Hampton from the division’s bottom three and he expects to be in the top four come April 2016.

“The only times I have managed a team that has not been challenging at the top end of the table is when I have come in to save a team from relegation,” he said.

“Once I have done that, my teams have either won promotion or been challenging for it and I expect that to continue.

“We want to win every game and I fully expect us to be around the top three or four come the end of the season.

“Other people can expect all they like, but that is what I expect and if I don’t do it, then I expect to be out the door.”

A four figure transfer fee was paid to Hemel Hempstead Town for defender Moussa Diarra, while compensation was paid to Ks for midfielder Josh Casey.

Dowson expects the pair to have a big impact for his men this term, while former Brentford pair goalkeeper Seb Brown and midfielder Eddie Hutchinson complete a key central quartet.

“What you see is what you get with Josh and he will be as good as anyone in this league,” added the manager.

“Moussa will be our best player, I’ve no doubt.

“It is smaller squad, but stronger than last year.”