Abingdon United’s new boss Richie Bourne faces a journey into the unknown when he takes his side to Bridgwater for their Division 1 South & West opener on Saturday.

It is the first time Bourne has managed at Southern League level.

Bourne, who took over in the summer after leaving Wantage Town, will call on the experience of player-coach Richard Peirson.

As well as re-signing Anaclet Odhiambo from Witney United, they have brought in goalkeeper Gareth Tucker from Ardley and defender Steve Davis has signed from Oxford City, though he could miss out with an ankle injury.

Bourne has gone back to his old club to sign Matty Horsell and Gavin Jones, while he has also brought in Andrew Younie and John McMahon from Witney.

Bourne said: “After a below par performance against Kidlington, we finished our pre-season with an excellent all-round display against what I thought was a good Swindon Supermarine side.

“It was a great response from the lads and for the first time I thought we looked more solid as a team.

“Although results in pre-season only give you a rough indication of how you are doing, anyone will tell you it’s nice to win. It breeds confidence, and this will now take us into our first league game.

“There’s no doubt, though it’s a tough opener at Bridgwater, who are always hard side to beat at home.”