AN INFLUX of fresh faces has given Marlborough the belief they can be a force in Dorset & Wilts Two North this time around.

The High Street-based club suffered a mass exodus of talent a few years ago and have been battling to re-establish themselves.

But, under the chairmanship of Andy Beacham, and Geraint Jones continuing as coach and vice-captain, more than a dozen new players have been registered during the summer.

Banfield said: "It has made the whole mood of the club very upbeat and we really feel like we can start to pick up after having a number of seasons trying to get the club going again.''

Simon Hudson, John Quinn and Eddie Edwards have come in to supplement a talented backline that includes fly-half Toby Mitchell, centre and coach Jones and full-back Andy Warren.

The search for recruits to beef up the pack has also proved fruitful, with Mark Adams returning and new signing Dave Woods also bolstering the second row.

Banfield insisted: "With a number of new players, I now feel that we're getting a pack that can win enough ball to feed our backs.''

Marlborough started their build-up to league action with a 43-7 dismissal of a combined Grove second and third team last week.

Nick Dobson grabbed four tries and two conversions for a personal haul of 24 points and Mitchell ran in a hat-trick of touchdowns.

Banfield added: "I'm really excited about the new season. We even hope to get second team games if things continue and to reach our aim of extending our clubhouse.''

Marlborough open their league campaign at Pewsey on Saturday (2.30pm).