LYME Regis joint-boss Mark Bailey admits preparation has been “far from ideal” as the Seasiders grapple with Colyton in the Joma Devon & Exeter League Premier East on Saturday (3pm).

Lyme saw their league clash at University of Exeter Seconds postponed last Saturday due to a spate of Covid-19 infections on campus.

The Seasiders have not played since a 6-4 victory over Kentisbeare on the opening day and Bailey feels Lyme could be rusty at Colyton, who have won two of three matches.

He said: “We’re always really well matched with them.

“Our preparation has been far from ideal and they’ll be in a much better place having played week in, week out. You can’t do much about it, it’s one of those things.

“We haven’t seen much of the lads. A few of them got game time with the third team and reserves.

“It’s not the same as playing together as a team.

“We’ll have a good chat about the importance of the game and hopefully start building some momentum for the season if we can get a run of games.

“It’s a bit of an unknown this year and it won’t be until six, seven, eight games in that we really know who’s looking good and challenging.

“We’re definitely going to be competitive.”

Lyme right-back Jake Sargent is struggling with an Achilles niggle, while Ben Turner remains suspended for two games.