All eyes will be focused on Dennis Brown?s new-look Somerset Trojans when they take on Boulevard in tonight?s opening Martonmere Cup Group B clash at BAA Field.

Trojans added depth to their roster during the off-season, something which has thrust the West End club among the favourites to wrest this year?s competition.

The West Enders, who last won the cup for the seventh time in their history in 1992-93, are pitted against a Boulevard team which, in contrast, lost the services of a few key players over the summer months.

Blazers edged Trojans in a seven-goal thriller at Somerset Cricket Club last March and also dumped them out of the Friendship Trophy via a penalty shoot-out after extra-time failed to produce a result.

There is a sense, however, the tide could turn during tonight?s Group B clash as Brown and crew attempt to get a foot in the semi-finals of the double-elimination competition.

?With enthusiasm comes high expectations and I think the players understand they have to live up to those expectations,? said Brown, who won five Martonmere Cup titles playing for Trojans in the 1980s and early 90s and another as coach of Wolves in 2000-01.

?Once they can achieve this then naturally the fans will also be pleased. And they all are aware that I can be a very hard individual to please when it comes to football.?

Trojans trail cup holders North Village (eight titles) for the overall number of wins by one in the traditional early season competition inaugurated in 1972-73.

Brown?s side, who finished sixth and reached the FA Cup semi-finals for the third straight year last season, had a total of 14 players added to their squad during the summer ? 10 of whom came from relegated neighbours Somerset Eagles. But they did lose the valued services of key forwards Dion Stovell and Clevon Hill along with promising defender Ijahmon Mallory.

Midfielder Jelani Scott succeeded Karl Roberts ? who retired from Premier Division football at the end of the 2004-05 campaign ? as Trojans? captain.

Brown added: ?We have looked at different combinations and things like that and the players know what is required of them and I expect them to deliver.

?I have always tried to instil great technique, good football insight and good football intelligence in my players. And I think we will be okay if we can keep possession of the ball for long periods, recognise different situations that arise during the match and defend well as a unit.?

Two-time cup winners PHC Zebras, meanwhile, take on Devonshire Cougars in tonight?s Martonmere Cup Group A nightcap in what will be a repeat of last season?s Friendship Trophy final at the National Sports Centre.