Seasiders boss Stuart Boardley has a mantra of under-promising and over delivering but that has not stopped him setting his sights on at least a top half finish, as his side start the campaign away at Great Wakering Rovers.

Felixstowe & Walton United will then kick off their competitive home season, also against Rovers, tis time in the FA Trophy first qualifying round, on Saturday, September 26. That means their league game against AFC Sudbury scheduled for the same day, will need to be rearranged.

Even though Boardley is already battling an injury crisis he believes he as a side that are capable of challenging for a top six finish.

"It would be wrong of me to stand here and say we could not do that because when you have team that can achieve at least a top half finish that is what we should aim for," said the former Torquay United player and Leiston FC manager.

While still looking to strengthen after losing a dozen players to injury during pre-season, Boardley is pleased with the signings he has made so far.

He said: "Ollie Canfer has done very well for us since he came in, Noel Aitkin controls our midfield. That is no surprise because people at this level know he is good player."

After losing two pre-season games, away at Ipswich Wanderers and home to Stowmarket due to injuries to one side or another, Seasiders take on Ipswich Town U23s on Tuesday evening at Dellwood Avenue, with a capacity of 400 supporters, on a first come first served basis.

Boardley welcomes the increased numbers at games and added: "I'm really glad for the fans. It was great to see them out and enjoying football again. It helps the players too."

Felixstowe's season is scheduled to start on Saturday, September 19 and end on Saturday May 8, with the playoffs to follow- so we've rather a lot to cram into less than eight months.

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