Town look for extra cover ahead of Sholing trip

Thatcham Town are hoping to sign defender Mark James in time for Saturday's visit to the league leaders

THATCHAM TOWN hope to sign defender Mark James from neighbours Hungerford in time for him to play against Zamaretto League leaders Sholing on Saturday.

James has been out of the first team picture at Hungerford for much of the season, and Thatcham need extra cover for their trip to Sholing with regulars Matt Bowler and Mark Hughes absent and striker Sean Cook suspended.

Thatcham have conceded only 31 league goals this season - the fifth best record in Division One South and West - and will rely upon their defensive strength when they taken on the top side.

“The main thing is not to concede an early goal when you take on the top sides,” said manager Gary Ackling.

“I know they are a good side, probably the best in the league,” he added. “But our defence is solid. We've got the fifth best defensive record in the league, and for a team in our league position, that is unbelievable.

Matt Madders and Danny Williamson join the squad for that game and Tuesday night's trip to Clevedon Town.