GARY Horgan expects Chesham United to again be amongst the front runners in the Evo-Stick Southern League Premier Division if they are anything like when Swindon Supermarine faced them previously.

The Generals impressed the Marine joint-manager when they defeated his side 4-0 in February on the way to a sixth place finish - just missing out on the play-offs in the process.

And Horgan knows that his side can expect another stiff examination at The Meadow, despite Chesham’s mixed start to the season which has seen them win two and lose two.

“I’ve not seen them this year, but last year they really impressed me both times we played them, particularly in the second game at their place,” he said.

“They had a lot of pace and physical presence, and they were definitely one of the better teams that we played.

“I expect them to be up there again. They have managed to keep hold of most of their players from last season.”

Horgan added: “They lost to Chippenham the other week so I’ve spoken to their manager Adie Mings, and we know a bit about how they might line up.

“They lost 3-2 at Brackley Town as well the Tuesday after we went there, but by all accounts they were unlucky to lose.”

Marine go into the game having picked up their first point of the season in Wednesday night’s crazy 4-4 draw at home to Cirencester Town in which both sides had a man sent off.

Jon Beeden and Paul Blanks were both shown red cards by referee Mark Russell after tangling in the second half, but both teams felt the decision was harsh.

Beeden’s ban does not kick in for another two weeks, although Swindon captain Dave Bampton starts the first of a three match suspension tomorrow.

Bradley Gray is expected to be out for anywhere between seven and 10 weeks with his ligament injury, while Horgan himself is still struggling with a hip problem.

“The only positive thing to come out of the game was the point,” said Horgan, who is now aiming for his side to claim their first win of the season.

“We always put pressure on ourselves to win and we try to do that in every game. We’ll be looking to do that on Saturday and on Monday (at home to Bashley), and for the rest of the season.

“But it’s nice to look at the table and not see that duck there any more.”

Horgan is also not concerned about the number of suspensions and injuries affecting the squad at present.

He said: “We brought some numbers in during the summer and we’ve got players that can come in and step up.”