AFC TOTTON are planning for a four-figure crowd to descend on the Testwood Stadium for their season’s opener against Hereford on Saturday week (August 6, 3pm).

Although word from the Edgar Street club is that some 300-plus Bulls supporters will be heading to Hampshire for the Southern One South & West curtain raiser, talk among the fans is that it could well be double that.

Hereford – risen from the ashes of the old Hereford United – were crowned Midland Premier champions last season, playing in front of crowds that put several professional clubs to shame.

During their inaugural season, they averaged a league attendance of 2,836 – a figure higher than six League Two sides.

With expectations high for the Bulls’ debut Southern League season, Totton – sponsored by New Century Bingo – are anticipating something of a full house.

“Hereford have said they’re bringing 300-plus fans, but if you look on the website the fans are talking more like 600,” said Totton chairman Andy Straker.

“We’re going to plan for 1,000 people and see what it brings.

“It’s a big game and there’s a lot of interest in the match in this area too.

“We’ve even had Saints fans telling us they’re coming.”

*More on this story and the regional non-League scene in this weekend's Pink.