BOSS Frank Gray insisted he had been encouraged by relegation-threatened Bashley’s latest performance – despite their perilous plight.

The New Foresters are just three points above the Southern Premier drop zone ahead of tonight’s home clash with Cambridge City (7.45pm).

Bashley’s winless league run was extended to seven matches when they suffered a 2-0 defeat at AFC Totton on Saturday.

But having not previously played since January 5 following a series of postponements, Gray felt there had been positive signs.

The Bash manager told the Daily Echo: “Saturday was the first time we had played for a month.

“We performed well for a good chunk of the game. I was encouraged by Saturday’s performance and I hope to keep that going tonight.”

Gray is expecting high-flying Cambridge to pose a stern examination for his team.

He added: “They are a strong side and one that I would expect to be at the top end of the table and, at least, in the play-offs.

“I think that is what they will be looking for as well.”

Gray is hoping to name an unchanged squad.

Bash: (from) Moore, Strickland, Oliver, Stephenson, Middleton, Richardson, Casey, Hill, Colson, Gradwell, Finlay, Gamble, Stokoe, Knight, Foster, Kearn.

  • Bournemouth Poppies manager Ken Vaughan believes Newport (IOW) could emerge as serious title challengers in the Wessex Premier.

Mid-table Poppies visit Newport tonight (7.45pm) aiming to become only the second team to beat them in the league this season.

Boss Vaughan said: “I would imagine it is all about pressure for them because they have stacked up a few games in hand.

“If they get out of that run, they will probably be one of the favourites to win the league.”

Luke Ayrton and Aaron Corby are both set to return for Poppies.

The hosts are currently in eighth place with five games in hand on leaders Alresford Town.

Poppies: (from) Jones, Martinez, Lockyer, Ward, Batchelor, Saadi, Daniels, Watt, Phillipson-Masters, Warren, Joyce, Phillips, Martin, Turner, Ayrton, Corby, Vaughan.