Portland United v Hythe & Dibden: Team news and match preview

PORTLAND United will not waver in their quest for 40 points – despite security with eight games to go.

The Blues host relegation-threatened Hythe & Dibden in Wessex League Premier Division action tomorrow (3pm).

Portland’s 0-0 draw at Amesbury, combined with a 2-1 defeat for Town on Tuesday, put the Dorset club on the safe side beyond doubt.

And boss Franklyn Clarke has now revealed the Islanders’ long-standing points target, which means 17th-placed Portland must claim 10 points in their last eight games.

He told Echosport: “It’s just about understanding that we still have a lot to play for this season.

READ MORE: Portland United aim for improvements in 2022/23

“The players and everyone have the right mentality for the last eight games.

“We want to reach our points target and we have a great chance to do so, and start with three points at home.

“We’ve looked at the board and there’s no reason we can’t move up a few places from where we are now.

“There are a few teams in us and around us where if we achieve our goal, it’s an opportunity to be higher.

“But it was about staying in the league and laying the groundwork. Now that we’ve done that, it’s about approaching the last eight games properly and finishing the season strong as a team.

He added: “We have tough games ahead. It’s just important that we finish strong, keep the positivity of the place and move forward.

Ryan McKechnie (groin) and Josh Williams (ankle) are out.

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