Sidmouth Town’s new manager has praised his side’s work rate and intensity after defeating higher-league opposition in their first fixture of pre-season.

Richard Pears’ side came away with a 3-1 victory over Wellington – who play two divisions higher than Sidmouth - on Friday (July 13) with two goals from striker Ash Small and another from fellow forward Rob Knight.

Now new manager Pears is hoping that momentum can continue into tonight’s (Friday, July 20) game against Feniton at Manstone Lane.

He said: “I was really pleased with the result against Wellington – we played with real intensity and work rate. We had some really good performances and we worked on the game shape and management that I have tried to introduce.

“I’ve told the players we are looking to finish in the top six this season – we’re not there to make up the numbers, we’re there to win football matches.”

Sidmouth host Chard next Friday (July 27) night before travelling to Topsham on Tuesday, July 31.