Marshall is back to lift Paulton's play-off bid

By rperkins

Zamaretto League: Paulton Rovers manager Andrew Jones has swooped to make his second major signing in seven days with the return of defender Lee Marshall to Winterfield Road.

Marshall completed his move from Blue Square North side Gloucester City last night and will make his debut alongside John Lock, who signed from Cinderford Town last week, in tomorrow's match at home to Bishop's Cleeve.

"Getting Lee Marshall is a fantastic signing," said Jones. "David Mehew (Gloucester City manager) has agreed to release him from his contract and allow him to come back home to Paulton and we are delighted to have him back.

"With Lee joining John Lock, we have really strengthened our defence for the run-in and have competition for places. We are looking very strong at the moment."

Marshall was a Paulton player two years ago before making the step-up to Gloucester, whom he helped win promotion to the Blue Square League last season. Jones has always kept in touch and revealed that he had an ally in enticing Marshall back to Winterfield Road.

"Lee's girlfriend Kate watches all our games and her dad, Andy Harris, is our club secretary," added Jones. "I know he enjoyed his time here and it is great to have him back."

As for 22-year-old Lock, who lives in Parson Street, he is relishing his home debut after two away wins at VT FC and Bracknell.

"I'm really looking forward to the game and also helping Paulton make the play-offs," said Lock. "I have played for Almondsbury and Cinderford this season but I'm looking to stay at one club for a while now and settle down."

Mangotsfield United boss Phil Bater will recall Neil Arndale for the visit of struggling Taunton Town to Cossham Street.

Defender Scott Hendy will have a fitness test on a groin injury but is regarded as doubtful for the match. Reserve-team goalkeeper Sam Alexander played in Wednesday's win over Forest Green Rovers and may keep his place after Tony Court was rested.

Taunton lost again on Wednesday and Paul West's side haven't won a game since August, leaving them in fear of the drop.

Top scorer Mark Reynolds will return to the Yate Town side for the trip to struggling Bracknell – and will immediately resume the responsibility for taking penalties.

In Reynold's absence through work commitments, Russ Church took a spot-kick in Tuesday's match at Bedfont Green. The keeper saved it and Church hit the rebound wide.

"I think Mark will take the penalties," said Yate Boss Dave Mogg. "But in fairness to Russ, he showed great character in shaking off that disappointment and scoring the winner at Bedfont."

Adam White will have a fitness test on a knee injury but Callum Stewart is out

Clevedon Town's trip to Hemel Hempstead is crucial to matters in the basement, with Nick Tucker's side third from bottom of the Premier Division and Hemel one place below them.

"This is a massive game for both clubs as we are both fighting for survival," said Tucker. "We'll have a totally different side to the one that lost against Swindon Supermarine in the League Cup on Wednesday and the boys are confident."

Striker Nana Baah returns to the squad after a hamstring strain and Chris Collins is also included.