Tanner faces a tough job at Winterbourne United

HELLENIC LEAGUE: New manager Nick Tanner today labelled his Winterbourne United appointment as "mission impossible" – then promised a crackdown on any training ground shirkers.

The 43-year-old former Bristol Rovers and Liverpool defender found himself thrust straight into the fray at the 11th hour for Bourne's away fixture with Purton last Saturday, which they lost 4-2 as a season of struggle for them in Division One West continued.

The timing of Tanner's call to duty was a surprise as the current coaching team of Terry Northam, Keith Ford and Ben Walker had announced their intention to take over the reins on a caretaker basis for a few weeks, while a successor to Stewart Jones was unearthed.

Tanner, pictured, who has managed Almondsbury Town and Mangotsfield United, explained: "I got in touch with the club, offering my help as I'd hit a quiet point while doing some work for a national scouting agency.

"I knew Keith was going to front things for four weeks but he and the chairman (Robyn Maggs) said they were happy for me to take charge straight away.

"Stewart was the manager for 17 years and I know that it's mission impossible following in his footsteps. All I can do is try and instil some stability and discipline into the club."

Tanner, who will be assisted by Ford and Walker for tomorrow's trip to play Lydney Town, and in the foreseeable future, revealed: "All our senior teams will train together and if players don't turn up for training they won't play, simple as that.

"Fitness levels aren't the best, and with no budget to work with, I'll be looking to bring through more reserve and youth players."

Bourne's Division One West rivals Tytherington Rocks are without right-back Ross Irwin with a torn calf muscle as they entertain Easington Sports, eager to extend their unbeaten run to eight games.

Rocks are hopeful sweeper Adam Keslake will become available again next month.