Oxford City defender Andre Burley has said that Saturday’s final pre-season friendly of the summer is the perfect test ahead of the new season.

The Hoops travel to Marine on the opening day of the National League North season in just over a week’s time. However, Braintree will prove to be tough opponents ahead of the inaugural curtain raiser.

The Essex-based side were promoted to the National League last season via the play-offs and after a strong summer of recruitment are intent on staying put.

Ahead of the game, Burley admitted that he’s looking forward to the fixture.

 “We’re expecting Braintree to be strong and organised, but we’re ready for everything and we’re looking forward to the game.” Burley told www.oxfordcityfc.co.uk

“I’ve been waiting for the season to start since the first day of pre-season, but this match will prepare us in the best way possible, as they [Braintree] have a lot of quality.

“I’m looking forward to a really challenging game. They’re a good team but we want to give a good account of ourselves and play our football.

“This is the last friendly before the start of the season, so we’re all raring to go.

“We have to remember it’s still pre-season and there’s things we can still work on, but Saturday’s game will be a good test before the opening game.”