Bishop’s Stortford manager Steve Smith is targeting promotion ahead of the Isthmian Premier opener against Haringey Borough

Bishop’s Stortford are once again targeting promotion as they prepare for the big home kick-off against Haringey Borough tomorrow (Saturday August 13).

The Blues had the best defensive record and goal difference in the Pitching In Isthmian League, Premier Division last season as they finished runners-up before suffering a semi-final heartbreak against Cheshunt.

Manager Steve Smith, whose side completed their pre-season schedule with a 4-2 home friendly victory over a Colchester United XI on Tuesday night, believes he has a squad capable of rising to the challenge once again. more to move up in the Vanarama National League South.

But he says his team is starting “with a clean slate” and must earn the right to fight at the top.

“We are trying to get promoted. It will be a tough league, but we have the same ambitions as last year,” Smith told Indie.

“I think we’ll be strong and I think we have a good chance if we can keep people fit and get going. We’re looking forward to it.

“[The players] are all determined to do well after what happened last year and we also brought in some good guys.

“Everyone says how well we did last year, but we have to forget about last year and carry on with this year. Last year we were great, but here we go.

“It would be nice to get a good start and a good result will help us a lot.”

After hosting Haringey, when former boxer Michael Watson MBE will be their special guest, the Blues travel to Potters Bar Town on Tuesday August 16 and visit Lewes on Saturday August 20.