PORT Glasgow boss Craig Brown looks to have assembled a squad that could mount a serious challenge this season.

Despite a few outstanding results in the previous campaign, the side’s inconsistency saw them finish up in the lower half of the Central League Second Division.

But with some experienced players returning to their former stamping ground, and the addition of some others with considerable knowledge of the junior game, things look bright for the Port in the season ahead.

The goalkeeping position looks set to be filled by Robbie Graham, the younger brother of former keeper Sean.

Robbie has joined from Port Glasgow Under-21s, but could face competition for the keeper’s slot from former No. 1 Bryan Tucker, who is back at the club for a second spell.

In defence, Brown’s men will be greatly strengthened with the signing of some key players.

Experienced midfielder Gus Gault, formerly of Largs and Renfrew, has joined the squad, as has ex-Pollok and Largs player Joe Connolly.

Meanwhile, there will be an emotional return to his old club of Eddie Walton, who has captained Largs for the past five seasons. Now that he has a young family and wants to be based more locally, the big defender is welcoming the chance to play once again for his home town side.

Port boy Ross Kearns makes the switch from Greenock, and another former Greenock player, Kearn Docherty, moves to the Port from Vale of Leven.

With Scott Nugent, Graham Black, Paul Gordon and Craig McCormick signing up for another season, there’s just the one new name up front in the shape of Steven McAfee from the Port Under-21s.

So it’s clear which areas of the side manager Brown has felt the need to strengthen, and he is delighted with his new signings.

He said: “Over the last two seasons the team has been very much on the young side, so it was important to get in some experienced players to help the likes of Brendan Sharp, Scott Paterson and Brendan Grana at the back, and I am pleased with how the squad is shaping up.

“We have had pre-season friendly matches in Ayrshire, West Lothian and Fife, which have all been great work-outs as we look forward to the season proper starting on Saturday.” The Port begin their Sectional League Cup campaign with what is supposed to be an away fixture at Renfrew.

But with Renfrew currently homeless following the sale of their Western Park ground, the venue has yet to be confirmed.

Sectional League Cup fixtures Sat 9 August: Renfrew (away) 2pm Wed 13 August: Vale of Leven (away) 6.45pm Wed 20 August: Johnstone Burgh (home) 6.45pm Sat 23 August: Greenock (home) 2pm.

Port Glasgow Juniors are sponsored by Regents Vehicle Sales, Greenock, and WJ.