HALSTEAD Town boss Mark Benterman says “confidence is flowing” heading into the new season.

The Humbugs begin their Thurlow Nunn League division one campaign in tomorrow’s match at home to Downham.

It is the first of four games in a row at Rosemary Lane – three in the league and one in the FA Cup.

And heading into the new term on the back of a successful pre-season, Benterman says spirits are rightly high in the camp.

“Confidence is flowing, especially after our last two friendly results,” he said.

“We won 3-0 at Eastbourne – FA Vase semi-finalists last season – on Saturday and then 1-0 at Brantham Athletic on Tuesday.

“Both were excellent results which show what we’re capable of.

“Tuesday really was the icing on the cake and it could have been five or 6-0.

“That’s what the boys deserved because there was only one team in it for most of the game.

“That really would have made a statement, but it was still very pleasing to win at, and outplay, a side from the division above.”

For the full story, see this week's Gazette.