EX-SAINTS goalkeeper Scott Bevan had words of encouragement for AFC Totton following yesterday's pre-season friendly at the Testwood Stadium.

Louis Langdown’s Stags competed superbly with Birmingham City’s U23s – for whom Bevan is goalkeeper coach – eventually losing 2-0.

It was a promising performance by the Evo-Stik Division One South hosts – something Southampton-born Bevan was quick to acknowledge afterwards.

He said: “I’ve known Louis and Adam Wilde (assistant manager) for many years and knew they’d have Totton well-drilled and physically fit.

“I was very impressed with them.

“They looked to play the ball around with a nice, quick tempo, they were very energetic and caused us quite a few problems.

“We were quite strong from an U23s perspective, but they more than competed with us and, hopefully, they’ll have a good, successful season.”

There were encouraging signs too for Totton’s divisional rivals Winchester City who drew 2-2 with higher league Weymouth at the Simplyhealth City Ground.

City led 2-0 inside half an hour through Joe Cook and Jake Rawkins and it remained that way until the last knockings when an unnamed trialist and Brandon Goodship pulled the Terras back on terms.

It left Winchester unbeaten in five home friendlies against Hungerford, Salisbury, Eastleigh, Dorchester and Weymouth, all of whom play at a higher grade.

“Another excellent display today against a very good Weymouth side who are firm favourites for the Southern Prem this season,” summed up City boss Craig Davis.

“We are still a bit short of where we want to be, but the progress we have made is great.”

Evo-Stik Division South new boys Blackfield & Langley drew 0-0 at Wimborne Town on Friday night.