BRIDPORT boss Jamie Manley believes Keynsham Town’s 4G pitch hands the Ks an advantage for their Toolstation Western League Premier Division contest on Saturday (3pm).

Keynsham were last season promoted from Western League Division One as champions while Manley and assistant Kevin Leigh were stationed at Chard.

Keynsham’s reserves saw their Somerset Football League home tie with Stockwood Green called off due to a flooded ground on Tuesday as the River Avon burst its banks.

But Manley is confident the game will go ahead as 19th-placed Bridport embark on a crucial run of fixtures with teams directly around them.

“At least we can prepare and know the game’s going to be on, even though they were called off on (Tuesday)” he told the Bridport News.

“We know what Keynsham are all about – they’re a good side. When I was at Chard last season we played them three times and they were tough games.

“They went up as champions and were the best side in the league, but we competed against them and expect this Bridport side to do the same.

“Going up to their 4G is never easy and when they’re playing on it week in, week out they’ve got a bit of an advantage.”

Bridport have signed Jamie Barfoot, the striker rejoining the club from Axminster, while Bees’ centre-back Lloyd Beals is expected to sign for Weymouth side Balti Sports.

Stephen Friend is out for up to six weeks with broken ribs, while Ryan Gall (thigh) is doubtful.

Aston Butcher is nursing a bruised foot and toe but Will Gape (dead leg) is expected to be fit.