WEYMOUTH face their biggest test of pre-season so far when they host Cherries' development squad at the Bob Lucas Stadium tomorrow (3pm).
The Terras take to home pastures for the first time this summer, giving their fans a closer look at the signings made by Bobby Wilkinson.
They continue a warm relationship with the Cherries’ development squad, for whom ex-Terras assistant Tom Prodomo now works as number two under boss Alan Connell.
And Wilkinson is ready for the challenge against a talented Cherries side keen to impress new first-team manager Andoni Iraola.
Wilkinson told the Dorset Echo: “I’ve tried to do pre-season where the first few games is all about minutes for players, then play some teams that should be fitter than us, like Bournemouth.
“So, the next couple of friendlies now ramp up to another level.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the home fans, they’ve been great to everyone and the new signings. We’re all coming together.”
On the Cherries, he added: “They move the ball fast and will be very good in possession. We might have to do some extra work out of possession, so it’s a great learning and fitness test for us.
“Then, when we get on the ball, we want to keep it. It’s a big test against a very good side.
“You’re going to go up against teams in our league that might have more possession than us, so you want to adapt to every situation.
“Every game we’re doing each week is planning ready for the season. Everything’s going to plan in that situation.”
Central midfielders Max Hemmings (hamstring) and Harvey Slade (groin) are out, while Marvin Brooks (knee) is doubtful.
Cherries' development squad came from behind to win 2-1 at Poole Town on Tuesday night, with Kian Tydeman bagging a brace.
Senior striker Jamal Lowe was part of the side that featured at the BlackGold Stadium.
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