HULLBRIDGE Sports boss Darren Manning is hoping this weekend’s trip to Baldock Town will allow his players to bond.

Sports are preparing for their first ever campaign in the Isthmian North after winning the Essex Senior League title on the final day of last season.

And Manning is looking forward to tomorrow’s pre-season friendly in Hertfordshire.

“We will have a nice, little coach trip to Baldock,” said Manning.

“When we were organising our pre-season schedule, I wanted to arrange some longer trips because we will have some coach trips during the upcoming season now that we’re in the Isthmian North.

“Coach trips help with team bonding and I’m hoping that will be the case for us this weekend.

“We know it will be a tough test for us at Baldock and it will be great for the players to get some more minutes in the legs.

“It’s important to improve our fitness levels ahead of our first ever season in the Isthmian North.”

Baldock ply their trade in the Spartan South Midlands Football League Premier Division.

And Baldock will be hoping for another fine campaign after finishing in fifth place last term.

Meanwhile, Hullbridge have arranged another friendly as they step up their preparations.

Sports were originally due to make the trip to Woodford Town on July 30, but the hosts pulled out of the fixture.

As a result, Manning has moved quickly to arrange a clash with Essex Senior League side Enfield on the same day.

The contest will take place at the Ryan’s Heating Stadium.