SOUTHERN LEAGUE: Collier without key trio for Banbury clash (From This Is Wiltshire)

SOUTHERN LEAGUE: Collier without key trio for Banbury clash

9:10am Thursday 24th December 2009

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SWINDON Supermarine will be without three first choice defenders when they make the trip to Banbury United on Boxing Day.

Skipper Matt Robinson, Leigh Henry and Kyle Lapham are all suspended for the Southern League Premier Division clash. And while boss Mark Collier, pictured right, admitted the trio’s absence was not ideal, he maintained that those who replace them will be capable of performing in their absence.

“It’s a blow. They are three important players,” he said.

“We’ve missed them all before and we’ve had to replace them, so we’re no different to anyone else.

“Leigh Henry in particular has been outstanding for the last six to eight weeks, but someone will come in who can do a competitive job.”

The Hunts Copse side could also be without Nick Stanley for the journey to Oxfordshire, as he is doubtful with a sickness bug.

Collier has been one of a number of Southern League managers to be surprised by the impressive start ot the season of Banbury.

The Puritans currently occupy sixth spot in the division with 28 points from 18 games, and have a formidable home record, having not been beaten on their own turf yet this campaign.

And Collier said: “Banbury have had a particularly good start. I think by their own admission they are the surprise package at the top end of the league.

“I don’t think they have won that many games but they are very difficult to beat. If you draw seven instead of losing seven then that makes a difference.”

Elsewhere in the Southern League Premier Division, Chippenham Town are away to struggling Clevedon Town.

In the Southern League Division One South and West, Cirencester Town host Yate Town.

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