Bartlett backs his side to overcome tricky start as they begin promotion push against Halstead

March Town United manager Chris Bartlett says his side is gunning for promotion this season.

In his first season in charge, he led the Hares to seventh in the Thurlow Nunn First Division. This season, the club is aiming a lot higher.

Their first three games, against three of the strongest teams in the division, will go a long way towards determining if they can match their lofty ambitions.

Bartlett said: “Pre-season has been very useful. I don’t think you ever start the season thinking everything’s in place. It will be a progression and we’ll look to peak at the right time.

“This season our aim is promotion. This adds pressure but if you don’t want to be in the mix you are in the wrong game.

“I’m well aware it will be tough - the teams which have dropped down are very strong. The players are excited about that and I’ve been getting messages from them saying they can’t wait to get started.”

Up first is a home game with Halstead Town on Saturday. Luke Pepper and Lewis McManus (long-term) are injured, with Ash Brand and Adam Conyard on holiday. Otherwise, they should be at full strength.

On the following Saturdays, they travel to Diss Town and host Great Yarmouth Town.

Bartlett said: “It’s a tough start. Halstead and Diss are well fancied, and we know from last season Great Yarmouth Town are extremely competitive. We must go into those games without any doubts - our absolute best will be needed.”