CHARD Town, fresh from two resounding victories over top four league opponents, travel to neighbours Wincanton Town on Boxing Day in Division 1 of the Toolstation Western League (ko 11.30am).

It will be the first time the sides have met this season and the first opportunity for Chard manager Paul Down to return to the club he managed for five seasons.

Chard are currently three points worse off than Wincanton, who have played a game more and sit in seventh place.

Chard boss Down was pleased with the long-overdue away win at Hengrove and to continue the good form from the Keynsham fixture.

Down continued: “Stu Parris (45) was excellent in goal replacing the unavailable Jon Hill, and a calming influence on the defence.

“James Boyland and Scott Martin were a constant threat in attack, with Matt Howell and Max Westlake outstanding in midfield.”

Looking forward to the Wincanton game, Down described it “as a match neither side will want to lose”.

He added: “I have many happy memories of my time at Wincanton and look forward to meeting up with a few old friends.”

Jon Hill should be back in goal, and Scott Jakeman and Ryan Mason will train this week and if fit will join the Boxing Day squad.

However, Taoufik Ben Salem, who came off after five minutes at Hengrove, will have intense physio after injuring his hip.

Steve Friend has broken his hand and will be out for several weeks at least.