NO EASYS – stand within earshot of the Petersfield Town bench and you are likely to hear that shouted at some point during the game.

It is one of the most commonly used phrases by manager Ian Saunders and its normal meaning is for his players to close down the opposition’s passing options.

It could also quite aptly describe Saunders’ thoughts on the season ahead, which he warns the Rams are in for a tough nine months as they start out on life in the Southern League.

But it doesn’t necessarily mean it won’t also bring Petersfield some more glory if things are approached in the right manner.

“It is going to be a difficult season ahead but I?am looking forward to the challenges we face,”?said Saunders.

“We will need to adapt as a club both on and off the pitch to this higher level quickly. If we don’t on the pitch we will be punished by the better quality of opposition we will be facing.

“As you go up through the levels, you will find that you don’t get away with mistakes as often as you did at the last level. Things we got away with in the Wessex League we won’t be so lucky with in the Southern League.”

Having tasted two seasons of success and silverware, Saunders would be keen to experience this for a third year and he doesn’t rule out this prospect.

He added: “I?am sure this season will be one of many more highs and lows than we have experienced previously.

“But the main aim will be consolidation at this level, the key point for this year.”