PORTLAND United interim boss Gary Bailey expects a “level playing field” when the Blues entertain Fareham Town at the Weyline Stadium in the Sydenhams Wessex Premier Division tomorrow (3pm).

Bailey’s men lost 4-0 at home to AFC Portchester in their last outing and have since seen Tuesday’s Dorset Senior Cup semi-final with Shaftesbury postponed to Tuesday, March 6.

Consequently, Bailey is looking forward to the encounter as he gauges his team’s reaction to defeat against the Royals, while hoping to pick up points against Fareham, who lie three places behind in 15th.

He told Echosport: “Last Saturday was a bit of a blow but Portchester are a very, very good side and their manager said it was probably the best they’ve played this season.

“We hope we can pick up points against (Fareham), it’s a bit more of a level playing field for us. It’s nice to get back as quickly as possible.

“(Tuesday) wasn’t to be and we’ll get that out of our system. They’re experienced lads – they will be good to go. I’m expecting a clean slate and a positive performance from them.”

But with the ‘Beast from the East’ swirling over Britain, Bailey is unsure whether the match will be on.

“That’s got to be in doubt. If we get the snow and the weather they say we’re going to get, and it settles and freezes, I’ve got my doubts it will be happening.

“Fingers crossed it won’t be as severe as they say, but we’ll prepare as if it’s going to be on,” he said.

Alex Godfrey (ankle), Sam Buckler (dead leg), plus duo Sanchez Baker and Ryan McKechnie (unavailability) miss out against the Creeksiders.