PORTLAND United manager Simon Browne admits he is “still learning” about his players as he prepares to face AFC Portchester in their Sydenhams Wessex Premier League fixture tomorrow (3pm).

The Blues are unbeaten in the current campaign but have been left to rue the concession of late goals, costing them several points.

But Browne feels he is “not a million miles away” from striking the perfect balance.

He told Echosport: “I’m still learning about the players and what the best formation is for us and that may take a while.

“I’m probably as harsh with myself as I am with the players, working out what’s best for the team as a whole. We’re not a million miles away from having it right.

“I’m confident in most of the games we go into, there’s no trepidation.”

Commenting on Portchester, Browne is expecting to come up against a well-drilled side.

“I’ve got a little bit of information on some of the players. Ian Saunders is up there as manager and he’ll have them well-organised.

“We’re finding out as Wessex League champions every team is raising their game against us and wants that scalp. It’s not going to be easy but I’m confident we can go up there and get three points,” he said.

Meanwhile, Browne confirmed that Shane Evans will miss the next six weeks with a knee ligament injury, but is boosted by the return of forward Ryan McKechnie.