GARY Bailey felt there were plenty of positives to take from his side’s first pre-season game against Gillingham Town, which resulted in a 2-1 loss for the Blues.

After an influx of players in the summer, Bailey managed to give each member of his squad time on the pitch including Jamie Beasley, who scored the visitors’ goal on the night after 17 minutes.

The island side’s first scheduled pre-season game against Lyme Regis was cancelled after the Seasiders’ ground was not ready for the occasion.

But, despite the setback, Bailey feels his side are growing well together.

He told Echosport: “It was a nice run-out, it was a typical first game.

“We were a bit rusty at times but it’s what I expected.

“As the game wore on we grew into the game and we enjoyed some nice passages of play.

“It was all about getting people minutes and from that point of view we are pleased.”

Bailey signed a number of players from Bridport over the summer and he felt they are already gelling well with the existing squad.

Up next for the Blues is a trip to Shepton Mallet – another Western League side – and the manager is set to name a similar side to that that played in Gillingham.

However, Bailey will also be looking at a couple of youth players in the game as he continues to shape his side.