Weymouth could be without seasoned campaigner Danny Bailey for their massive Dr Martens Premier Division relegation six-pointer at Cambridge City tomorrow.
The former Exeter City midfielder is struggling to be fit after tweaking a hamstring in Wednesday night’s friendly win over Yeovil Town at the Wessex Stadium.
The news has come as a big blow to manager Geoff Butler who describes the clash at Milton Road as a `must win’ game for his struggling side.
“Danny’s told me he’s a quick healer,” explained Butler, “but I doubt three days is enough to get over a hamstring injury. I might be wrong, I certainly hope so. This is just the sort of game where we need leaders out on the park and that’s exactly what Danny Bailey is. It’s a long trip tomorrow although we go there with a good work out against Yeovil behind us and there were signs of a big improvement in our last league game against Worcester City a few weeks ago. It’s okay talking about things, now’s the time to go out and win football matches.
“If we end up in a poor position come the end of the season then it’s games like this one that we’ll look back on and say we should have won. We’re certainly capable of going there and winning – we’re capable of beating every side home and away – but now is definitely the time to stop saying it and start doing it. Cambridge are a point above us having played a game more and so we’ve got to get a result, simple as that.”
Having netted the Terras winner against the Glovers in midweek, Hamworthy Recreation trialist, Crispen Riglar, may have done enough to earn himself a seat on the coach to Cambridge. But whether the 27-year-old striker decides to take it, remains to be seen.
Butler said: “I was delighted with the way Crispen played and I don’t think he could have done any more in 45 minutes. A goal against a top class side and three other really good chances was a pretty good night’s work. I’ve talked to him, offered him a deal and told him I think he’s got a future with us. He seems keen and I expect him to have a go, but whether he makes up his mind before tomorrow we’ll have to wait and see.”
Another player considering terms with the Terras is defender Toby Redwood who was this week released by Taunton Town. However, even if he does opt to try his luck at Radipole Lane, an ankle injury will rule him out of contention at Cambridge.
“Toby’s thinking over offers from ourselves and Basingstoke,” Butler added, “but he’s not going to be fit enough to play for anyone this weekend. From what I saw against Yeovil, we’ve got plenty of lads fit, hungry and raring to go such as Julian Charles, Marc Whiteman, Michael Sajic, Michael Dean and Mark Kenway.
“Nobody walks into this side anymore and I’m glad that players are showing some desire and fighting for their place in the team. That’s the sort of competitive dressing room I want and it can only help in our fight to get back up the table.”
