Paul Scope has attempted to remove the pressure from the Bermuda Hogges players ahead of their match against high-flying Richmond Kickers declaring: “We have nothing to lose”.

The basement dwellers take on the Kickers at the National Stadium tonight on the back of five straight defeats — the latest a confidence-sapping loss to fellow strugglers Wilmington Hammerheads.

But Scope has encouraged his battle-weary team to throw away the form book and play without fear against the Kickers who beat them 4-0 last weekend.

“We know the Kickers are a very strong outfit and arguably the best team in the league,” he said.

“Nobody will expect us to get anything from the game so the players have nothing to lose.

“The pressure will be off and should allow us to play without fear and with plenty of freedom. The coaches will be looking for the players to show a positive attitude and to keep playing football.

“The defeat against Wilmington Hammerheads in mid-week was a blow because we thought we could get something from the game. But I think the fact we had played three games in four days caught up with us in the end.

“We’ve had a few days rest and should be a lot fresher tonight and will be able to put out a stronger team than when we met last weekend.” With another fixture on Monday night against New Hampshire Phantoms, Scope admitted the Hogges might look to rotate their ‘keepers to give new signing Nigel Burgess first-team involvement.

The 26-year-old put pen-to-paper last week and travelled with the squad to the United States, but had to warm the bench with Jason Williams impressing against Crystal Palace Baltimore and the Kickers.

“We would like to try and get Nigel involved even if he’s just sitting on the bench,” he said.

“Timmy Figureido is our first choice and Jason Williams has shown what he’s capable of. We are very pleased with all three of our ‘keepers and have a lot of strength in that department.”

Scope has also revealed reinforcements could soon be on their way in the form of Bermudian international Kevin Richards.

The utility defender is set to return to the Island from England where he has been working, and could be involved in first-team action by mid-July.

“If we can get Richards on board it will give everyone a boost as he’s a very good defender and will give more options,” added Scope. “He’s a good overlapping full-back and can play at centre-half.

“He’s been involved with the national team and will definitely improve our side. To be fair to other defenders have told us they are keen for us to strengthen in that department.”

“We have also had a couple of other lads training with us — both defensive players — and may sign them if they impress.”

Hogges’ only absentee against the Kickers will be Jelani Scott with a groin strain, while Darius Cox returns from his foot injury.

The Kickers lie in second place in USL Division Two and have not been defeated this season.

And in former DC United striker Robert Ssejjemba they possess the league’s MVP last season.

Kick-off is at 8 p.m..