Dorchester Town manager Tom Killick believes Saturday’s derby clash with Weymouth will feel more like a National League fixture than a Southern League encounter.
A crowd of several thousand is expected at the Avenue Stadium as the long-standing rivals meet in the league for the first time since Boxing Day 2018, when Weymouth claimed a 1–0 victory thanks to a goal from Brandon Goodship.
Both teams have found the current Southern League campaign challenging, with Weymouth enduring particular difficulties and already appointing their third manager of the season. Despite this, Killick insists the match is about far more than league position, with local pride and crucial points at stake.
Although Killick has yet to face Weymouth as Dorchester boss in a competitive league fixture, he is no stranger to the occasion, having featured in many derbies during his playing career.
Speaking ahead of the game, he said the players are relishing the opportunity to perform in front of a large crowd. He expects the attendance and atmosphere to mirror that of a higher level, something rarely experienced at this stage of the season.
Killick also stressed the importance of his squad embracing the occasion and understanding how much the fixture means to the supporters. He believes that responding positively to the crowd’s energy can help players raise their performance levels, both technically and mentally.
Dorchester head into the derby following an enforced break after last weekend’s match against Tiverton was postponed. The Magpies will still be without suspended duo Will Spetch and Wayne Robinson, while Marcus Daws remains a doubt.
There is better news elsewhere, with Jack Dickson expected to return after illness ruled him out recently. New signing Marcel McIntosh is also in contention to start after making a strong impression during his debut appearance against Sholing.
Kick-off at the Avenue Stadium is scheduled for 3pm on Saturday, December 27.
