Marine v Chesham United Review

Marine troubled by injuries ahead of Chesham United….

Chesham United’s position in the top two of the Southern League Premier Division South table means little to Swindon Supermarine manager Lee Spalding, who insists his side are a match for anyone on their day. United visit the Webbswood Stadium in hot form having won their last four league fixtures – only a 2-1 FA Cup loss to National League South outfit Hampton & Richmond Borough denied them a perfect run of September results. Likewise, Marine enter the game in a buoyant mood following Wednesday’s night’s 4-0 win over neighbours Highworth Town in the Southern League Challenge Cup.

Spalding believes if his troops can reproduce their performance levels from the second half of the midweek Wiltshire derby, then the Marine boss sees no reason why Chesham can’t be stopped in their tracks. Spalding said: “Chesham were a great side when they came to our place last season, and they’ve added to that. “I’ve watched them a couple of times. They’re lively up front and the forwards are quick – the wide players are good too.

“Chesham have a goal threat, so we’re going to have to make sure we’re solid all over. “We need to take our confidence and belief from Wednesday night into Saturday. We haven’t been clinical enough recently. “If we can add that to our game, then I’m confident that we are a match for anyone in our league, to be honest. “There’s nothing I’ve seen that has made me think that Chesham are a lot better than we are.

“If we pick up a win, the confidence will be right back. The game will be tough, but a win is well within our reach if we play well. “Chesham are towards the top of the league but they’re at our level and we’re more than capable of beating any team in our division.”

Spalding said: “We were good in the second half. We huffed and puffed in the first but didn’t really create too many clear opportunities. “Harry Williams had a good chance, but didn’t take it. “We passed the ball better and were patient in the second half, that created three or four really good opportunities. “We were more clinical, which is what I’ve been asking for. Now I want us to carry that into Saturday.”

Passing Wednesday’s test at Highworth was certainly welcomed by Spalding, particularly considering his current injury crisis. Able to field a strong team, though, goals for Bradley Hooper, Conor McDonagh, Harry Williams and Henry Spalding booked Marine’s spot in the next round but Saturday will be a different test for the players that are in the squad and it will be a very tough test of character and ability.

The patched up squad will definitely be without the services of defenders Matt Williams (groin), Michael Hopkins (hamstring) and Simon Downer (hamstring), and midfielder Calvin Dinsley (hamstring). Defender Dave Bampton who has featured in any league matches but played in the cup match at Highworth will come into the squad.

Admission Prices & Other Info

PAY AT THE TURNSTILE
Adults | £10     
Concessions | £6     
U12's | Free     
Programme | £2       
Car Parking | FREE