A host of the area's semi-professional clubs will continue their preparations for the forthcoming season this afternoon.

National League North side Lowestoft Town – the region's highest-ranked side – welcome Braintree Town to Crown Meadow as they look to get their schedule back on track following a 6-2 mauling at Leiston in midweek. Rossi Jarvis and Adam Smith found the net for the Trawlerboys as they look forward to a second season at Step Two of the non-league pyramid.

Dereham Town and Wroxham, who play two levels below Lowestoft, have home matches as they try to get ready for the Ryman North kick-off on Saturday, August 8. Dereham host St Neots Town while Wroxham entertain Felixstowe & Walton United.

Some of the region's Thurlow Nunn Premier Division sides will also take to the field today as the opening day looms ever closer. Gorleston visit Harleston (2pm) while Norwich United are at home to Thamesmead Town.

Division One duo Diss Town and Great Yarmouth Town also open their doors to visiting teams. Norwich CEYMS travel to Brewers Green Lane while Hullbridge Sports can enjoy a Saturday on the coast.

Two teams who will not be in action are Thurlow Nunn Premier club Kirkley & Pakefield and their same-level United Counties League Premier Division counterparts Wisbech Town. The UCL Fenmen called off the proposed fixture yesterday citing a lack of player availability.

Wisbech boss Brett Whaley said: 'I hate cancelling friendlies as they are an important part of the pre-season build-up. Then, to lose three more players (through injury) on top of those who were already unavailable meant playing this game would hinder rather than help our preparations, so we were left with no choice.'

Former Wisbech striker Jack Friend, 18, will spend the forthcoming campaign with National League North's Boston United. The Pilgrims have signed the Peterborough United talent on a season-long youth loan.