ALL roads lead to Aggborough today for Kidderminster Harriers' debut match in the Nationwide League Third Division.

And, according to excited Harriers chairman Lionel Newton, this afternoon's all-ticket clash against Torquay United has sparked interest from soccer fans throughout the county.

Newton describes the high-profile build-up to today's eagerly-awaited clash as having reached fever pitch.

"Every day there's been phone calls, not only from the regional papers but the national media as well. It's been phenomenal.

"I never thought we'd have this level of interest. It's not just only from the town but the whole community of Worcestershire."

Kidderminster's promotion to the Football League has caught the imagination of followers of other football clubs in the Midlands who are anxious to see what's on offer at Aggborough this season.

Newton said: "There are Wolves, Villa, Blues and Baggies fans, who are going to carry on watching them, but are going to visit Aggborough on days their teams are not playing at home because we're a Football League club now with big teams coming to the town.

"In fact, a lot of people from Worcester are actually going to come to watch League football in the county for the first time."

Newton says Kidderminster are expecting a "big test" in their debut season, but feels the key to their future lies with boss Jan Molby.

"I'm confident that with the manager we've got, the quality of players and the football we can play that we should finish at least half way up the table. I see no fear for us really.

"Without putting pressure on Jan, a play-off place would be my dream this season, but I've got every faith that we will do well in the Football League."

Newton, however, accepts that all the best-laid plans don't always work "in the real world of football" and any request from Molby about boosting his squad would be considered favourably.

"But he's quite happy in these early stages about the quality we have got in the team.

"It's just if we get unforeseen injuries or suspensions, that's the only down side. But pre-season has gone well.

"Jan's put the players through a lot of extra work and they have been a bit tired, but it will do them good in the winter nights in November. I think the fitness side of it will show then."

Newton says Kidderminster have budgeted for an average 3,000 gate, "but I still believe we'll be well above that because of the interest in our first year in the Football League. I'm sure throughout the season there's going to be many matches that are going to be a sell-out".