“WE’LL do all we can” is the battle cry from Weymouth boss Brian Stock as the Terras aim to sink arch-rivals Yeovil Town tonight (7.45pm).
At the time of writing, the eagerly anticipated Vanarama National League clash is set to go ahead as a third national lockdown looms.
Weymouth had been due to host Darren Sarll’s Yeovil in November – one day after emerging from a league-imposed isolation period as Covid-19 swept through the Terras’ camp.
However, the fixture was rescheduled for the New Year and comes as both teams enjoyed positive results in their previous games.
Weymouth drew 1-1 at home to play-off hopefuls Eastleigh, while Yeovil staged a late comeback to topple runaway league leaders Torquay United 2-1.
The game is the first league meeting between the sides since Yeovil’s 2-0 win in the Vauxhall Conference in January 1989.
Building up to the derby, Weymouth boss Stock was under no illusion as to the magnitude of the fixture.
He said: “Another big game, a local one and one that everyone connected to Weymouth will want to win.
“We’ll be no different, we’ll be doing everything we can. I’m expecting the players to look after themselves and we’ll try and do all we can as a football club to get them prepared, ready to go.”
Centre-backs Corey Jordan and Josh Leslie-Smith continue their battle against concussion, while Myles Anderson (ribs) is doubtful.
Midfielder Andy Robinson (hip) and striker Ben Thomson (ankle) are close to a return, but striker Christian Saydee is in self-isolation after a close contact tested positive for Covid-19.
On the injury situation, Stock added: “We’re looking at maybe having Andreas back soon, Ben’s another who’s not going to be far away.
“With those coming back into the squad, we’re looking quite strong.
“Josh is going through his protocols in trying to come back. It’s a serious one where we have to make sure he ticks a box every single day.
“If he doesn’t he has to continue that process the following day. Before (Eastleigh) you can see him doing some work on the pitch but he’s not quite ready, he’s still feeling a little bit dizzy.
“Myles has got a rib problem. He’s having to rest and I don’t think he’ll be in contention for the next week.”
