by Kevin Redsull

Scott Porter is relishing the prospect of leading Hythe Town into Ryman League action for the first time on Saturday.

As his side prepare for their opening Division 1 South game at Godalming the Town boss admitted: "I’ve only been a manager for two years and this is a big step up for me.

"There was a lot of pressure on my shoulders when I took over to get us out of the Kent League. Then, last season, some people thought we would fall away after our FA Cup run but we kept going and won the league and now I can’t wait to take on this new challenge.

"We have got an excellent squad, with some established names who have already played in the Ryman League mixed with a lot of raw talent. Everyone is full of confidence and looking forward to the season."

Although Porter says he knows his starting line-up for Saturday, he wasn’t prepared to give anything away, including whether skipper Dave Cook will revert to central midfield after finishing last season playing at centre-half.

He added: "Dave’s a winner and he can play anywhere really and we are lucky that he gives us so many options."

One of Town’s new faces, Lloyd Blackman, is ruled out this weekend by a one-match suspension carried over from his spell with Whitstable last season but he will be available for the home clash with Faversham on Tuesday.

How do you think Hythe will fare? Have your say below.