Bumper crowd expected expected at derby clash (From Stroud News and Journal)

Bumper crowd expected expected at derby clash

A BUMPER crowd is expected when GLS Hellenic Premier Division Shortwood United welcome County League Taverners tonight, (7.30pm), in the GFA Trophy first round. Last week's clash was postponed due to high winds around Nailsworth.

Meanwhile, Shortwood go into the game facing a selection headache. Peter Ralph, Matt Moore and Chris Phillips are all unavailable.Gary Marshall is suspended and Simon Hindley is missing due to injury.

Shortwood crashed out of the Hellenic Cup on Saturday at Witney United. The Nailsworth side looked to be going through as a Chris Davis double had given Shortwood a 2-1 lead, however, Witney drew parity and eventually won through 4-2 after extra-time.

Meanwhile, Shortwood were hoping to parade new signing John Dalton, but transfer forms for the Liverpudlian striker have not cleared in time. Dalton is now likely to make his United debut at home to Ardley United this Saturday.

Dalton played for Stroud League Victoria Celtic last season, where he was a prolific scorer, this season he began at Cirencester Town who subsequently loaned him to Tuffley

Dalton will be joined by Cinderford Town midfielder Nick Weeks, who is joining United on a months-loan. Weeks' move was set up through Cinderford boss Mike Cook.