SKIPPER Scott Arnold wants Wimborne to get back their derby dates with Stour rivals Poole Town – for both the players and the fans.

The reliable right back has publicly stated his desire to achieve at least a Southern League South & West play-off place with the Magpies this season as they look to emulate the Dolphins’ title success.

And with Steve Cuss’s side suffering a dearth of local matches following Poole’s promotion and Sholing and Winchester City’s drop to the Wessex League, Arnold feels the need to challenge for a Premier Division place takes on greater importance.

While the fierce foes renew acquaintances in tonight’s pre-season friendly at Cuthbury (7.45pm) Arnold readily admits he and his team-mates crave the intensity of league meetings against their Tatnam rivals.

Arnold told the Daily Echo: “We want to get our derbies back and, obviously, the Southern Premier is where we need to be because that’s where you get the games against Bashley, Totton and Poole Town.

“From a player’s point of view you want to play those games because there’s nothing better than trying to get the local bragging rights and we look forward to getting them back.

“It is also great for the fans to have those matches. The Wimborne supporters are loyal and they have stuck with us through some hard times when we’ve been towards the bottom of the league.

“They could have gone sideways over the Stour but they stayed and this season is our chance to repay them.

“We’re looking forward to seeing how Poole do in the league above because they have a good chance of the play-offs as well.

“I am sure that will be their aim and if Gosport can do it (seal back-to-back Southern League promotions) then Poole definitely can, but if they don’t, we’d love to join them up there.”