PORTLAND United boss Simon Browne believes his side “couldn’t have asked for a much tougher tie” as the Blues take on Horndean in the FA Vase first round at Grove Corner tomorrow (3pm).

Horndean, a fellow Sydenhams Wessex Premier Division side, sit fourth in the league and have won their past four games, with Browne wary of their calibre.

He told Echosport: “It’s going to be a tough game. Horndean have had a great start to the season. I’m glad we’re playing them at home rather than away.

“They look a decent outfit so we couldn’t have asked for a much tougher tie, certainly from sides in our league.

“They gave Hamworthy a shoe-ing 6-0 and Hamworthy beat us in the league not so long ago.

“Maybe we can upset the formbook and get through to the next round.”

And the Blues described the tie as an “all-or-nothing” game.

“It’s a cup game so it’s all about getting through the tie. It’s all or nothing, there can only be one winner. Saturday may be our best opportunity of getting through the tie.

“I’ll look at it in that respect of how I set the team up and approach the game. It looks like we have a near full-strength side to choose from.”

Browne is also set to welcome back a host of players for the clash with the Deans.

He said: “Sanchez Baker should be back available. Aston Butcher’s suspension is done and dusted and Sam Buckler should be OK this week.

“Shane Evans is out long-term and Lewis Whyton has been struggling with a foot problem, so it’s nice to have a couple more bodies back.”