Southport on their guard - Watson

Southport boss Liam Watson has warned his side they will face a tough test on Saturday when they face Gloucester on the opening day of the season.

The Sandgrounders start with the newly promoted side as they hope to challenge for the Blue Square North title.

"They've been promoted so they are going to come up on a bit of a high," Watson told BBC Radio Merseyside.

"Any team after promotion tend to start the season well. So we're certainly going to have to be on guard."

"But if we do things right get around the pitch in the right areas I'm sure we have enough to cause them problems," Watson added. "We've just got to make sure we are right from the first minute.

If you are going to be up there at the end of the season you're going to have to start well and keep it steady all the way through

Southport manager Liam Watson

"We must be strong and dominant and use the bit of quality we've got. When the chances come along we must finish them."

Southport managed to finish in the play-offs after finishing fifth last season, although their chances of promotion were ended by Gateshead over two legs - but Watson thinks it will be harder to repeat that feat this time around.

"With the money Fleetwood are paying, they're are going to be a threat," continued Watson. "Telford have only improved, Alfreton have made some great signings and Eastwood and Corby Town have paid a lot of money out out as well.

"There are going to be no gimmies. If you are going to be up there at the end of the season you're going to have to start well and keep it steady all the way through."

Southport's Blue Square North game with Gloucester City kick's off at 1500 BST at Haig Avenue on Saturday.