9:14am Friday 12th March 2010
By Ky Capel
Dorchester Town have gained an extra supporter ahead of tomorrow’s trip to high-flying Braintree Town (3pm).
Blue Square South leaders New-port County can clinch the title this weekend with six weeks to spare.
The Exiles must beat Bishop’s Stortford this evening and hope other results tomorrow, including the Magpies’ visit to Essex, go their way.
County boss Dean Holdsworth is therefore desperate to see the Magpies complete an Iron double – following October’s 5-0 hammering at the Avenue Stadium.
Dorchester manager Ashley Vickers, who last season played under Holdsworth at Spytty Park, said: “I had a text from Dean Holds-worth asking us to win because if we do then Newport could win the title tomorrow.
“We have proved that we’re a match for anyone and I’m looking for us to go to Braintree and hopefully come back with a share of the points or all three.”
Vickers’ men enter the clash on the back of an impressive 2-1 win at Hampton & Richmond Borough and the county town chief is hopeful of further joy on the road.
He added: “Tomorrow can’t come quick enough after Tuesday night. It’s a long way to go but we’re keen to carry on the good form from Tuesday and take it to Braintree.
“The first 10 minutes or so can be tricky when you travel so far but we showed outstanding application on Tuesday.
“We’ve got nothing to lose tomorrow, the lads are hungry to do well and the spirit around the club is great.”
Jules Emati-Emati (ankle) remains sidelined while new signing Josh Llew-ellyn, who scored on his debut in midweek but then hobbled off with a hamstring injury, could be out for up to three weeks.
Vickers though, can draw comfort from the fact he has top scorer Matt Groves ready to step in.
He said: “Josh got on the scoresheet on Tuesday and couldn’t have asked for a better start to the game, so it’s unfortunate he’s picked up any injury already. Regardless of that, he is one for the future.
“Groover did well when he came on and it was unfortunate that he got sent off, but I know he will give everything he has. He’s also got a good goal ratio as well.”
Meanwhile, members of the Dorchester faithful have called for Vickers to be made boss on a permanent basis.
Of the Internet petition, the 37-year-old added: “It’s very flattering. I’m thoroughly enjoying it and the lads are a great bunch. For as long as it continues, it’s a massive honour to manage this club.”
Magpies (from): Coward, Filkins, R Hill, Bowles, Critchell, Martin, Walker, K Hill, Brice, Jermyn, Coutts, Gleeson, Nodwell, Crittenden, Devlin, Moss, Groves, Emati-Emati, Byerley.
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