CHARD Town will be looking to end their poor run of four straight league defeats when they entertain Ashton & Backwell United tomorrow (ko 3pm).

Having gone 13 league matches unbeaten at home, Chard have now lost their last three Zembard Lane fixtures, and have not won at home since December 22.

Again, the Robins have players missing – Andy Holmes, Ben Haines, Nathan Warren and Steve Friend – but striker James Boyland is back.

Chard manager Jamie Manley was offering no excuses for his side’s slump in form, but it is no coincidence it has coincided with the loss of centre-back Andy Holmes, who has not played since January 5.

He has been missed not only from a defensive viewpoint, but also because his long throws are a potent attacking weapon.

Manley said: “Losing, like winning, becomes a habit so we have to go back to basics and start grinding out results.

“The only consolation is that the teams around us are also dropping points.”

***

TOMORROW also sees Ilminster Town travel to Shirehampton in the Somerset County League (ko 3pm).

The Blues are in good form, but Shirehampton sit fourth in the Premier Division table and boast 30-goal Scott Bamford, the division's top scorer.

Combe St Nicholas are 12th in Division 3, and tomorrow they host 11th-placed Banwell.

On Sunday, Ilminster Town Ladies face a tough test away to Callington Town Ladies, who are second in the South West Women's Premier Division (ko 2pm).

As for Ilminster Town Ladies Reserves, they entertain Ash Rangers Ladies in the Dawn Prior Memorial Trophy (ko 1.30pm).