WEYMOUTH manager Mark Molesley expects a “tasty” derby with Poole Town in the Dorset Senior Cup quarter-finals at the Bob Lucas Stadium tonight (7.45pm).
Otherwise known as ‘El Jurassico’, the fixture has not been contested between the seaside rivals since last season, when Weymouth were held 2-2 at home and Poole 1-1 at the Black Gold Stadium.
The Terras were also defeated by Poole 2-0 in the semi-finals last season – a match in which both teams rested numerous players.
Looking ahead to their latest match-up, Molesley stressed his desire to find a “balance” when picking his team.
The former Bournemouth midfielder hinted at changes to maintain Weymouth’s Vanarama National League South push, where the second-placed Terras are currently on a sublime run of 11 games unbeaten.
He told Echosport: “They’re always tasty games against Poole. We’ll obviously reflect and see what foot is best to put forward for that game.
“We need to get the balance right (with) our league duties. We’ve got players near coming back from injury and others who need resting.
“(It’s been) a gruelling start to the league and Christmas is the toughest fixture period, so we need to get that right.
“But there’s no doubt about it, we want to win the game and there’s a good chance for us to get some minutes into players who do need it and perhaps a few younger players around the club as well.
“It’s definitely a worthwhile exercise for us and one we want to win but at the same time there’s a big week after with three massive away games.
“We have to prioritise this year and perhaps the week after might be a little bit more our priority.”
Molesley also offered an update on Cameron Murray, who went off injured in Weymouth’s 1-0 FA Trophy third qualifying round win over Hastings United.
“It’s a shame, he’s had a little bit of an issue with his shins,” Molesley explained. “We’re hoping it’s going to settle down sooner rather than later because we certainly miss that energy.
“We’re at the stage of the season where we can’t take risks with anyone and that’s the case with Cameron and Ben Thomson.
“Hopefully a good week’s rest for them and they might be in contention next week.”
Callum Buckley, Sam Sherring plus Andy Robinson could be given match minutes after ankle injuries.
