HULLBRIDGE Sports boss Darren Manning fears Lewis Greene will miss the start of the Isthmian North season after dislocating his finger.

The goalkeeper picked up the injury in Sports’ 4-2 defeat to Hertford Town on Saturday.

And Manning was frustrated to see the custodian sidelined.

“Lewis dislocated his finger and that was the biggest negative to come from the game against Hertford,” said Manning, who is preparing his side for a first ever campaign in the Isthmian North after winning the Essex Senior League title last term.

“We’re expecting him to be out of action for any time between two weeks and a month.

“It’s a shame and we know he will miss some games, but it’s important that the injury heals properly.

“We have got something lined up, in terms of the goalkeeper situation, but Lewis being sidelined is not ideal.”

Hullbridge will continue their preparations for the upcoming campaign by making the journey to Hornchurch tonight.

The Urchins, who are managed by former Southend United defender Mark Stimson, are among the favourites to win promotion from the Isthmian Premier League and head into the clash having beaten Great Wakering Rovers at the weekend.

And Manning is relishing the challenge.

“We’re looking forward to the game and James (Wakeling, assistant manager) and I are quite close to the club,” added Manning.

“It will be a tough test and they have a top manager in Stimmo.

“They’re not among the favourites to go up for nothing.”