AFTER three weeks with no football at Zembard Lane, Chard Town have two home games in the next week, writes Colin Dunford.

Both matches are against teams in the top five of the Toolstation Western League First Division, with identical records to second-placed Chard, but an inferior goal difference.

Tomorrow (ko 3pm), third-placed Keynsham Town, beaten 2-0 by Chard in the Somerset Premier Cup on October 10, are the visitors in the league.

Then, on Wednesday (October 31, ko 7.30pm), fifth-placed Calne Town, who overcame Chard 1-0 last Saturday, visit the Town ground in the first round of the Les Phillips Cup.

Central midfielder Sam Smith, Jamie Manley’s major summer signing from Shaftesbury, has missed the last five games and is likely to be out for several more weeks with his knee ligament injury.

But Manley reported no new injury worries after Saturday and should have a fully fit rest of the squad from which to choose.

Reflecting on the loss to Calne, Manley said: “We lacked a bit of quality in the final third, in what was a competitive encounter.

“It is so tight at the top; anyone can beat anyone.

“We are looking forward to our clashes against Keynsham and Calne.

“The latter to gain revenge, and Keynsham will no doubt be looking for their own revenge, for our recent cup victory.”

Meanwhile, Chard Reserves, who were without a fixture last Saturday, visit Exeter University Reserves, looking to complete a league ‘double’ on Saturday (ko 3pm).

***

ILMINSTER Town, up to ninth in the Somerset County League Premier Division after beating Stockwood Wanderers 1-0 last Saturday, entertain basement side Odd Down Reserves tomorrow (ko 3pm).

On Sunday, Ilminster Town Ladies are at home to Downend Flyers (ko 2pm).