Stansted FC have enjoyed a great pre-season and can t wait for the Essex Senior League to kick-off on Saturday when they visit Burnham Ramblers. It will be a tough test for the Airportmen against the side that finished fifth last season, but manager Terry

Stansted FC have enjoyed a great pre-season and can't wait for the Essex Senior League to kick-off on Saturday when they visit Burnham Ramblers.

It will be a tough test for the Airportmen against the side that finished fifth last season, but manager Terry Spillane feels his side are up to the challenge.

"It couldn't be more difficult, but we are looking forward to going there and it's a great place to start," he said.

"I expect a game of football as they are a football side like us. I remember from last year they are strong from set pieces so we have got to be wary and have been working in training to iron some things out.

"They will be one of the top teams this year, but we don't fear them and it will be good to measure ourselves against them.

"If we come away with a draw it will be a good result, but we are going there to win and I'm confident we can do that."

Stansted will be missing several players for the season opener. Sam McCarthy (heel) and Paul Seymour (groin), are both injured, while Danny Fenn and Steve Merrick are on holiday.

"I'm disappointed, but we have a big squad and it gives other players a chance to stake their claim," said Spillane.

Stansted will then visit Eton Manor on Wednesday in the League Cup

"I will treat that seriously and will play the strongest side I can," said the boss. "They had a brilliant end to the season under new management and I'm sure they will be stronger this season."

The manager hasn't ruled out further signings before the new season.

"I've got a few in the pipeline, but I don't want to say too much at this stage," said Spillane.

"One is a centre midfielder and the other a centre back. I'm happy with what we have got, but am always looking to strengthen further."

Stansted's friendly at Newham United on Tuesday night was called off, but the manager wasn't too disappointed.

"It did us a favour really," he said, "we got to work on a few things in training.