CHIPPENHAM Town manager Mark Collier has no qualms about taking his side on the road twice in the space of three days when the new Southern League Premier Division season kicks off.

The Bluebirds get one of their longest away trips of the season out of the way early when they travel to Bedfordshire to take on Biggleswade Town on Saturday August 9 before making the trip to Redditch United on Monday August 11.

Four of Chippenham’s first five matches are away from home, with a trip to division new-boys Dorchester Town scheduled for Tuesday August 19 after the first home match for Collier's men against Arlesey Town on Saturday August 16, with a trip to Cambridgeshire's Histon following that on August 23.

The Bluebirds host Paulton Rovers on Bank Holiday Monday (August 25) and go to local rivals Cirencester Town on September 6.

“Normally, it is tougher to win games away from home but we’ve got to play everyone twice and I’ve got no problems going away so much early in the season,” said Collier.

“At the start of the season, pitches should be in good condition, which will help, and we’re now focussing on that game at Biggleswade.

“We did well up there and drew 3-3 in one of my early games but we were well-beaten at home. They’re a very direct side and they did well last season.

“There are a few more local games this season, with the likes of Cirencester, Frome and Paulton, and those games have always got a bit of spice to them. The club can hopefully look forward to some good crowds too.”

The Bluebirds travel to Swindon Supermarine for their second pre-season friendly of the summer this Saturday, with the match arranged to support injured midfielder Rob Dean, who played for both clubs before suffering a career-ending knee dislocation last season.

Midfielder Jordan Roberts is away on holiday and misses the chance to take on his former side whilst Collier is hopeful that defender Greg Tindle, who missed Tuesday’s 1-0 win over Shrivenham through illness, will be fit to return to his squad.

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