BRIDPORT manager Adam Fricker is taking heart from the Bees’ recent performances ahead of a tricky Toolstation Western League Premier Division fixture against Buckland Athletic at St Mary’s Field tomorrow (7.45pm).

After losing 3-2 to leaders Street and 5-2 to fourth-placed Bradford Town, Bridport take on the seventh-placed Bucks, who could move up to fifth with a victory.

Bridport, meanwhile, could rise two places to 10th with a win, but Fricker told Echosport he expects a “tough test” against a side Bridport narrowly lost 3-2 to earlier this season.

He said: “If we turn up and play the way we have in the last two games we’ll give them a good test.

“We’ll look to do what we have done over the last couple of games. The performances have been very good and we have to take the positives.

“You can look at the results, it’s not gone our way but we knew we were going into a tough run of games. We’re taking a lot of heart from how the lads have adapted themselves.

“We had a tough game down at their place, we conceded two early goals and the lads fought back in the second half, but a late goal won it for Buckland.

“We’ve had some tough tests against them. It’s a great set-up and they’re keen to move up through the leagues. It will be another tough test for us.”

Bridport, who have lost all four games played in 2018, will be without midfielder Braeden Symes after the midfielder was sent off against Street, while star striker Mark Salter is a doubt.

Fricker said: “Braeden will start his three-game ban and he’ll miss the next two after that.

“It’s a blow because he’s been excellent for us this season, but it gives others opportunities. It’s a tenacious part of his game but it’s one that we don’t want to take out or change in him.

“The lad’s got a massive future in the game and will certainly be playing higher than he has been.

“Mark is doubtful, he had to come off against Bradford with a tight hamstring. The same with Andy Martin, he needs a bit of a break.

“We’ve just found out the news that Leigh Bailey has been banned for two games for reaching 10 bookings. He’ll be available but won’t be for Saturday.”

Meanwhile, Dorchester Town Reserves host Bashley at the Avenue Stadium tomorrow (7.45pm).