11:57am Friday 20th April 2007
DEFENDER Kes Metitiri has returned to Southern League play-off rivals Team Bath after completing his month-long loan at Hardenhuish Park.
The former West Ham United trainee has made a big impression in his short spell at Chippenham Town and boss Adie Mings was sorry to see him go.
Mings said: "I've known about Kes for a couple of years now and I was delighted to be able to bring him in.
"He's a lovely lad and a very good player. Ideally, we would have liked to have had him here a little bit longer.
"But Team Bath have a hectic run-in over the next couple of weeks so you can understand why they would want to boost their squad with a few more players."
Mings received some better news this week when Conference South side Salisbury City agreed to extend Charlie Knight's loan period until the end of the season.
The 20-year-old full back was due to return to the Ray McEnhill Stadium this week but will now be available for the remaining matches against Cheshunt and Hemel Hempstead, and the play-offs should Chippenham qualify.
"Charlie has been a good addition to our squad, so I'm pleased Salisbury have agreed to extend his loan," said Mings.
"I don't think we've lost a game that he's been involved in, so maybe that's a good omen for us.
"I know Charlie has really enjoyed his time here and we're happy that he's staying on until the end of the season."
With Ian Herring and Kevin Halliday both suspended for next week's trip to Hemel, Mings faces a tough decision as to whether to start the pair against Cheshunt tomorrow.
Striker Sean Seavill will take part in the warm-up as he steps up his recovery from a groin injury, but defender Paul Milsom is struggling after aggravating his knee injury against King's Lynn.
"We've had some big games over the last few months and this is another big one," said Mings.
"If somebody taps me on the shoulder on April 28 and says you've qualified for the play-offs, then I will prepare for a match on the Monday.
"But for now all I'm thinking about is Cheshunt and trying to pick a team that can get me the three points.
"I hope the sun shines and we get a big crowd down there to support us. Hopefully we can get back to the form we showed against Yate in the second half."
Chippenham could win their last two matches and still miss out on the play-offs if Halesowen Town and Maidenhead United win their remaining fixtures.
But three points from the last two games could see the Bluebirds home, if both Halesowen and Maidenhead fail to collect another point.
But for now, put the calculators to one side and just enjoy the football.
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