Double deal aids Royals' promotion push

AFC PORTCHESTER have swooped to make a double signing ahead of tomorrows Wessex League premier division visit to Brockenhurst (3pm).
New AFC Portchester recruit Dan WoodenNew AFC Portchester recruit Dan Wooden
New AFC Portchester recruit Dan Wooden

Dan Wooden, from Moneyfields and Jack Breed, from Gosport Borough, will go straight into the Royals squad. Joint-manager Mick Catlin rates them as two big signings for the club who are still pushing for promotion.

‘They give us extra options at an important period in the season,’ said Catlin.

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‘I have worked with both players before at Gosport Borough and know what they are capable of.

‘Wooden is 27 years’ old and has lots of experience of playing at a higher level.

‘He has shown over the years that he can be a match-winner.

‘I feel he can make a big impact with us playing well below the level he could be.

‘Having him on board will only help us in our ambition to move up the leagues.

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‘Jack is at the beginning of his career and played every game for me when I was at Gosport. Recently though he hasn’t been able to get into their side.

‘He wants to be playing football regularly because he has got some Gibraltar representative games coming up.’

With Jake Morgan, Steve Ramsey and Joe Bye all carrying knocks the new additions will give the Royals added depth.

Striker Andy Todd is away with Royal Navy commitments so Wooden is expected to slot straight in up front.

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Michael Birmingham is looking for a hard-working and energetic performance from Horndean at Shaftesbury (3pm).

The visitors are keen to turn the table on their hosts who won 2-1 at Five Heads Park earlier in the season.

‘We know from experience Shaftesbury are no mugs,’ said Birmingham.

They are a good honest hardworking outfit. We have to be prepared to go there and match them in that.’

Defender Liam Kyle is an injury doubt for the visitors.

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Baffins Milton Rovers hope to exploit home advantage against Bemerton Heath Harlequins at the Kendall Stadium (3pm).

Manager Steve Leigh is demanding an improved performance after losing their last home encounter 2-0 against Brockenhurst.

Fareham Town make the trip along the south coast to meet Portland United (3pm).

Petersfield Town entertain Bashley at Five Heads Park (3pm).

In Division One United Services Portsmouth travel to met Christchurch at Hurn Bridge (3pm).