BALTI Sports’ boss Marco Nott admits losing Liam O’Shaughnessy to rivals Dorchester Sports is a “blow” to the club.

Left-back O’Shaughnessy has been a regular fixture for Balti over the past few seasons, developing his football alongside time at Weymouth Under-23s.

However, the defender requested a move to Balti’s big rivals and his departure follows that of star winger Matty Burrows to Portland United earlier this season.

The episode has demoralised Nott, who told Echosport: “That was a blow, to go to our rivals.

“I’m disappointed to say the least. We’re in a tough period for the first time in the six or seven years we’ve been in the DPL.

“I just thought it’s worth sticking it out, but it’s up to him. Good luck to him.

“I’m disappointed to lose him. He’s been a good player and he’s improved over the years.

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“It’s almost like we’re improving the players to go and play for other teams. It’s hard to get signings ourselves.

“He’s a player that plays every week, as well, which we notoriously struggle with. It’s not great and it’s come at a bad time.

“I’ve waived the seven days because there’s no point in keeping someone who doesn’t want to be there.”

Balti visit Jewson Dorset Premier League big guns Merley Cobham Sports tomorrow (3pm).

Merley were the highest scorers in the whole of Dorset last season with 98 goals in 25 games.

Balti were beaten 10-3 in the league by Merley last season but improved drastically in their DPL Supplementary Cup semi-final, losing 5-4 on penalties after drawing 0-0.

However, Balti’s form has dropped off in 2020/21 with key players out injured or having switched to other clubs. Nott’s men currently sit 13th of 18 teams.

On Merley, Nott added: “It doesn’t get much tougher. Last couple of years they’ve arguably been the best team.

“We lost 10-3 there last year and we’ve got our work cut out. It’s certainly a daunting task.”

Goalkeeper Andy Nott, defender Che Curran and Rory Zima could all return.