EVESHAM United face a stern test when they return to Southern League West action at home to Salisbury on Saturday.
The Robins, who saw Saturday’s scheduled trip to Kidlington fall foul of the snowy weather, go into the Jubilee Stadium clash in third place – seven points behind their second-placed visitors having played two games more.
The match is the first of ten remaining fixtures for Paul Collicutt’s side and defeat could see them drop out of the play-off places, so a bumper home crowd could make all the difference against talented opposition managed by former Birmingham City forward Steve Claridge.
Meanwhile, midfielder/striker Garyn Preen, who played for Evesham last season, has rejoined the Robins.
The former Wales U19 international started his career as a youth team player at Cardiff City and Southampton before a spell at Burton Albion. He has also played for Salisbury, Neath, Afan Lido, Merthyr Town, Cinderford Town and Hungerford Town.
He was signed by Hereford FC last summer and was released at the end of February after scoring six goals. The 26-year-old made a big impression last season with the Robins – making 22 appearances and scoring three goals – and goes straight into the squad to face Salisbury.
Cameron Ebbutt has joined United on a month’s loan from League One side Bristol Rovers. The 19-year-old featured for their first team in pre-season and has since been out on loan at Yate Town for whom he scored five goals in as many games including a hat-trick at Taunton Town.