Reds in need of defenders ahead of key clash

Steve Stone is attempting to shore up his defence ahead of Fareham Town's Wessex League premier division relegation clash against Cowes Sports at Cams Alders.
By The Newsroom
Published 9th Dec 2016, 08:00 BST
Updated 14th Dec 2016, 13:45 BST
Fareham goalkeeper Luke DouglasFareham goalkeeper Luke Douglas
Fareham goalkeeper Luke Douglas

The Reds suffered a 7-0 home defeat against Blackfield & Langley in midweek, after they were forced to field eight midfield players.

Another defeat will see Fareham drop into the bottom three with the Yachtsmen leapfrogging above them.

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‘All our defenders are injured so I need to get some in,’ said Stone.

‘Not only do we have people playing out of position, we are also having to throw in six or seven youngsters.

‘We look more like a youth team at the moment.

‘To their credit, the lads never gave up and kept going right to the end against Blackfield.

‘This is another massive game for us in our bid to stay up.

‘I reckon we need around 37 points to stay up so there is a lot of hard work to be done.’

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The Reds have been boosted by the return of experienced goalkeeper Luke Douglas.

League leaders Moneyfields journey to the New Forest for the second time in a week as they face Lymington Town.

The 2-0 win at Brockenhurst saw Dave Carter’s side stretch their lead to six points at the top.

‘We just have to keep ticking off the wins and let all the others worry about catching us,’ said Carter.

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‘At Brockenhurst we passed the ball well and it was one of our best footballing performances.

‘A final scoreline of 4-0 wouldn’t have flattered us and we limited them to just one chance.’

Steve Hutchings scored on his return from suspension and his presence provides a big boost to the Copnor club’s title ambitions.

Nathan Paxton is also back in contention after a stomach muscle problem.

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Horndean take on FA Vase heroes Team Solent at Five Heads Park.

The student visitors are the Wessex League’s last remaining team in the national competition.

Michael Birmingham is looking for his team to bounce back after their 3-2 Hampshire Senior Cup tie at AFC Totton.

He is expecting a mouthwatering contest.

‘It should be a cracking game between two sides who love to get the ball down and play,’ said Birmingham.

‘We have played them three times already this season and every time it has been a pleasure to watch.’

Related topics:League leaders