BEING able to write a preview of Alresford Town playing in the Sydenhams Wessex League Premier Division may not have been possible at one stage earlier this year.

Changes made by New Alresford Town Council to the Magpies’ Arlebury Park home meant it didn’t comply with the FA’s strict ground grading criteria required by step five clubs.

Unless chairman Trevor Ingram and other club officials had stood up to the changes and ensured Alresford had what they needed to continue in the Wessex Premier Division, a drop down the divisions would have no doubt followed.

However, a new stand is in place for the start of the season so the Magpies can again concentrate on matters on the pitch.

Consolidation is probably still the name of the game for them after the trophy-laden seasons they enjoyed a few years ago. However, they proved last season that they have more than enough about themselves to steer clear of the relegation zone.

The Magpies open their league campaign on Saturday with a trip to Cowes Sports on the Isle of Wight (3pm).

They then travel to AFC?Portchester next Tuesday evening for their second league game (7.45pm).