WEYMOUTH manager Mark Molesley insists the Terras are out to win the Dorset Senior Cup but will not risk further injuries in their semi-final at Verwood Town tonight (7.45pm).
Molesley has faced a growing injury list in recent weeks – Shaun Hobson and Josh Wakefield adding to the strain with respective back spasms and an ankle complaint after the 3-1 win at Welling on Saturday.
Andy Robinson and Calvin Brooks (both ankle), Calum Ward (quad), Cameron Murray (shin and ankle) and Jack Hoey (arm) are all currently out.
However, centre-back Brennan Camp could return after being used as cover by Bournemouth for their 4-0 FA Cup third round win over Luton.
“It’s a great opportunity for some to get minutes that they need,” Molesley told Echosport.
“We’ll manage it how we always manage this cup competition. It’s one we’ll certainly be looking to win but we’ll utilise other players that require the minutes and not risk anyone that doesn’t need risking.”
Verwood, who are currently in 14th place in Sydenhams Wessex Division One – England’s 10th tier – lie four divisions below the Terras and beat Bridport 4-2 in the quarter-finals.
The chasm in standard between the sides prompted Molesley to reflect on the quirks of cup competition.
“That’s the beauty of this cup,” he said. “We see it in every cup competition that no game’s easy.
“They’re going to relish the challenge and be right up for it. We’ve got to make sure that whoever comes in and plays that game sticks to the processes and the way we work.
“It will give us an opportunity to get some young players in and around us and get some minutes for the players that need it.
“We’re on the back of a very hectic schedule so we can’t afford to risk anyone with the amount of injuries we have.
“It’s getting that balance right of wanting to win the game but not risking people.”
