BBH-New Brighton are ready for the first of two attractive pre-season matches which start on Saturday with the visit of National League Division One club Birmingham Solihull to Reeds Lane (kick-off 3pm).

So says Riaz Fredericks, Blues' outstanding No 10. "Training has been 'hot' this week," he said. "There's a real good feeling about training and it's a real pleasure to be working with these guys."

Training has indeed been going well for New Brighton with coaches and players quietly confident that this could be their season in National League Division Three. Director of rugby Alistair Saverimutto said: "We are much better prepared this year and will learn a lot by playing first division sides like Birmingham."

Renowned for their big, uncompromising pack, Birmingham play a strong forward game, but with flyers like Jordan and Urwin in the backs the Midlanders are not short on pace. Wirral's own Sean Woofe will also be lining up against the Blues, having moved from Premiership Leeds.

It will be interesting to see how Steve Kelley fits into the front row with Mark Dorrington and Karl Davies. Steeped with Rugby League influence, Kelley is renowned for his pace about the field, but faces a tough Reeds Lane baptism against the mighty Birmingham props. The form of 19 stone Phil Gazolla will also be keenly observed following his return to Reeds Lane following a year in Italy.

Lock Richard Bradshaw is expected to miss the encounter with a groin strain. Bradshaw is adamant that he will be fine for the season and does not require surgery.

Eager to retain his front line second row spot, Paul Campbell will be noting the form of 6' 7'' Steve Fox and the 6' 5'' University student Jay Sturrett, both of whom will be keen to catch the selectors' eye as competition for second row selection is intense.

In association with sponsors BBH Solicitors, New Brighton are allowing free admission to Saturday's game, which promises to be a most interesting and exciting encounter.

The second of the pre-season 'friendlies' at Reeds Lane is on Saturday, August 24, when Fylde, also of National League Division One, provide the opposition (kick-off 3pm).