Uplyme FC will be looking to build on the encouraging progress they have made since switching to the Devon and Exeter League several seasons ago, writes John Davis.

The club, who will be facing twelve other opponents including local rivals Lyme Regis Reserves and Colyton Reserves in Division Four, hope to do even better than last season’s third place finish.

The majority of Uplyme’s players have remained and manager Steve Gillan will be looking for important contributions from this term’s key players like Matt White, Daley Holmes and James Souter.

Warm-up friendlies have gone well, including a final game which was a 3-1 win against Milborne Port.  

Gillan is looking forward to an exciting season ahead. He said: "While some clubs are having to fold because of team raising problems we are able to run two teams and have good numbers involved.

“We have young players who are always keen and enthusiastic and they’ve proved to be loyal lads,” he added.

Gillan will be assisted by Peter Blandamer and in charge of the Reserve side, who play in Division Two of the Perry Street and District League, are John Bowditch and Phil Heath.

Uplyme Reserves had a great start to the season and won the Perry Street League's pre-season Reg Eglon Cup on Tuesday (August 27) with a 6-0 win over Shepton Beauchamp Reserves.

Daley Holmes and new signing Fred Morel both netted twice and there were also goals from Alex Jones and Jamie Gunstone.

Uplyme start their season this Saturday (September 3) when they entertain Elmore Thirds at 3pm, while the reserves have their first league match, also at home, against Forton Rangers A on September 7.