King's Lynn boss Keith Webb insists an opening day Southern League, Premier Division trip to dark horses Bashley holds no fears.Webb is upbeat ahead of today's big kick off at last year's runaway South and West champions.

King's Lynn boss Keith Webb insists an opening day Southern League, Premier Division trip to dark horses Bashley holds no fears.

Webb is upbeat ahead of today's big kick off at last year's runaway South and West champions.

“I don't know too much about them,” he admitted, on the eve of his first full season at the helm. “They are a promoted side and used to winning games. That breeds confidence but the same applies to us. We've had a good build up and now it's down to the players to take on board what our objectives are. It's been a long pre-season and I sense we are ready to go.

“Hopefully all the hard work we've put in will pay off. The league table won't take shape for at least ten games - and eight of those are away for us. If we can stay in contention during that period then we'll have those home games to fall back on.”

Lynn stayed overnight in Hampshire after travelling down in a team coach chartered for the season. Webb accepts the big spending title favourites will again be everybody's favourite scalp.

“It's a monkey on our backs that other sides see us a big fish,” he said. “We've added experience in the shape of Ben Chapman so I think we have enough to cope with that expectation. All the players know where we are coming from because both myself and Lee Glover have impressed that on them.

“I am determined to get this club playing Conference football. First and foremost my priority is to win games. People can say how well the team has played over the last two or three seasons but we haven't got promotion.

“Chelsea have won championships and been criticised for not being as attractive to watch as Arsenal or Man United. I would settle for that if it means we are successful.”

Chapman (calf) and Jack Defty (back) are injury doubts. First choice keeper Scott Howie is available after missing Lynn's pre-season finale at Grantham. Central defenders Mark Warren (hip) and Greg Crane (ankle) have recovered from minor knocks. New signings Rob Murray and Shaun Ridgway made the trip. Shaun Carey is in the party but will not be involved as he steps up his return from a double leg break.

Coveted midfield target Matt O'Halloran is also in the squad. The wideman has rejected a move to Unibond Premier Stamford, but will hold talks with former club Boston United next week.

“He wants to hear what they have to say,” said Webb. “ The decision is down to him. We spoke at training in midweek and he indicated he wants to stay. I'm trying to build a squad and he is a key part of that. Players want to be playing all the time but with the number of games, injuries and suspensions you need a strong squad.”

King's Lynn (from): Howie, Murray, West, Chapman, Warren, Crane, C Defty, Fisk, Camm, Frew, O'Halloran, Melton, Ridgway, Turner, Bloomfield, Nolan, J Defty, Francis.