LITTLE Oakley boss Sean Tynan believes his players will relish the physical battles ahead during this season's Thurlow Nunn League campaign.

The new division one south line-up features more experienced, senior sides, with the only younger teams being the reserve sides from Brightlingsea Regent and Braintree Town.

Tynan believes that could suit his players, as they look to build on last season - their first at step six level.

“The boys are gelling as a unit and I’m really pleased," he said.

“There’s a bit of a buzz around the club and we’re looking forward to the challenge of this league.

“There aren’t as many young reserve sides this season, apart from Braintree and Brightlingsea.

“Instead, there are more senior, experienced teams and that means it’s going to be more physical.

“Rather than being up against boys, we’re going to come up against big, strong and athletic senior footballers but we’re looking forward to that challenge.

"It might even suit us. Hopefully so."

There was a hat-full of goals as Oakley defeated much-fancied Hashtag United 3-2 on Saturday.

The Acorns fought back from behind and their scorers were Harry Man, Stephen Polley and Sam Eldridge.

Oakley were then in action at Coggeshall United on Tuesday night and drew 1-1.

Ross Brazitas scored their goal.

Tynan's men host Lopes Tavares on Saturday in the Essex Senior Cup.