SLOUGH RFC head coach Darran Brown believes his side are ‘bubbling’ ahead of the new season.

The Greenies finished in fifth place in the Berks, Bucks & Oxon Premier last year, and are building towards a tilt at promotion this term.

Brown has recruited well in the summer months with up to 40 players in training.

He set them a challenging pre-season schedule, including a clash with London 2 North West outfit Staines.

But, he now believes Slough have what it takes to test some of the best sides in the league this season.

Speaking to the Observer, Brown said: “We had a tough and challenging pre-season as I deliberately selected tough fixtures. I wanted to know what the squad was capable of doing.

“We blooded new faces and younger players with older heads.

“Results weren’t important, it was all about performances and some players really stood up and showed what they’re capable of.

“We are looking to be more mobile and the mood is good, the players are itching for the season to start.

“Everyone has had a tough pre-season but we’re bubbling for Saturday.

“All clubs would like a bit more quality in depth, but we are blooding young guys and will have a good season.” Brown added: “It was a big squad in pre-season, though naturally it fell into place.

“We’ve recruited in excess of 10 players, and looking at around 20 others returning, so we’re looking strong.

“We’ve brought youngsters up and the numbers we’ve had down at training have been close to the 40 mark.

“It’s a vast improvement on last season and we’ve still got guys to come back in who have missed a season or two due to injury.” The Greenies host Chesham at Upton Court Park tomorrow (Saturday, 3pm), and Brown is aware of the importance of a good start to the season.

“We had three great games with Chesham last season but results from last year mean nothing,” he commented.

“They’ve had a decent pre-season and will come here not wanting to start the season as they finished the last.

“It will be a fast and physical game but we’re looking forward to a good day.

“But, it can all fall down in a game or two. We are buzzing now but we will feel flat if we don’t hit our straps.

“A win is a good confidence booster and we’ve done a lot of work over the summer.” **PICK up a copy of the Observer, out now, for all the latest sports news and action including our complete rugby round-up** **FOLLOW the Observer on Twitter at @Observer_sports**