PHC defender Kevin Richards is optimistic about his side's chances of lifting the first piece of silverware of the season when Zebras face North Village at BAA tonight for the Charity Cup.

PHC won the League and FA Cup to go along with their Martonmere title last year. With the same nucleus of players returning along with some key additions, the Warwick side look primed to take more titles this season.

And with the defending champions looking to hold onto all of their silverware while adding more, Richards reckons the result of tonight's match will send a message around the Island, not matter who wins.

"Obviously we want to win the game but the ultimate goal is to retain the league title and all our other titles we won last year and add a few more to our cabinet," said Richards.

"This is the first one up for grabs so we want to win it and send a message to other sides looking to come for our spot.

"Our preseason has been going pretty well. We have been on the beach and involved in a few pre-season games so we are slowly getting our legs underneath us."

Last season's contests between the two sides were blow-out affairs with each side winning two of their match-ups, including the 7-3 demolition of PHC by North Village in the Friendship final.

While Village have been adding to their already talented squad, Zebras have bolstered their own, including Hogges striker Steven Astwood.

"Playing Village is like any other side," added Richards. "We want to play our game and let our performance do the talking. We need to focus on what we do best and if we minimise our mistakes and take our chances there is no team that can stop us.

"We are looking to blend the new guys with the winning formula from last season and be ready for when the season starts."

The match kicks off at BAA Field at 8 p.m.