Young keeper Grant set for Moneyfields run

Goalkeeper Ellis Grant is set to continue for Moneyfields as they head to Larkhall in the Southern League Division One South (3pm).

The 20-year-old made his debut in the 3-1 home win against Evesham United after being brought in to replace the injured Jake Hallett.

Hallett has a suspected hernia and is set to have a scan at the end of the week.

And manager Dave Carter regards it as a good opportunity for the newcomer Grant.

‘With Jake picking up his injury, Ellis could get a run in the team,’ said Carter.

‘Ellis was at Hythe & Dibden last season and has been at Gosport Borough.’

Ellis made 40 appearances for the Wessex Division One club last term and has featured six times for them this season.

‘At six foot six inches he has a big presence and will have the benefit of playing behind an experienced backline,’ explained Carter.

‘It is a chance for him to prove himself at Southern League level.’

One player who definitely has not got anything to prove is striker Steve Hutchings.

He notched a hat-trick in the win against Evesham and has been one of the most prolific goalscorers in the Wessex and Southern Leagues in recent years.

If he shows anywhere near the same form at Larkhall, Carter believes Moneyfields can come away with a fourth away league win of the campaign.

But Carter is frustrated that another of his main goalscorers, Ryan Pennery, remains sidelined by injury.

‘At the start of the season we were looking to Pennery and Hutchings as our main strike force,’ said Carter.

‘They have only featured twice together all season.

‘But we have brought Miles Everett in (from Horndean) and he gets better every game he plays.’

Experienced midfielder Lewis Fennemore is available and defender Brett Poate came through his last 90 minutes without any problems.

‘We are starting to see some light at the end of the tunnel,’ said Carter.