Skipper doubtful starter for New Milton match

CARL JOHNSON is a major doubt for Guernsey's clash with New Milton this afternoon. The Guernsey captain has a haematoma on his calf after he was kicked during the defeat by Trojans last Saturday.

'It is not looking that good at the moment; the swelling is only just starting to come down,' Johnson said.

'At this stage it is looking unlikely that I will play although we will not make a final decision until the day. If I do miss this one it will be only a one-week thing.'

Mark Jones looks the most likely replacement if Johnson does not make it.

But on the plus side, Guernsey welcome back Dave McGall who will partner Jock Quesnel in an experienced second row.

'Dave will make a big difference because he has really been on form of late,' said Johnson.

'Jock played the full 80 minutes last week, for the first time this season, I believe, and he did well. As predicted, he dominated the line-out, which everyone knows is his strong point.'

The visitors to Foote's Lane currently lie fifth in Hampshire League One having won seven and drawn one of their 14 matches but New Milton are regarded as one of the tougher sides to beat in the division.

'They are quite a strong team,' said the Guernsey skipper.

'But Fareham only just scraped it against New Milton so they are going to be a good side.'