Taunton in a great position still, says Dray

TAUNTON’S unbeaten home record in the Premier Division South is at stake when they play Dorchester this afternoon.

The Somerset side are still six points clear of the field, despite New Year Day’s 3-1 defeat at Merthyr, and they have a better goal difference than any other side in the division, which could be vital at the end of the season.

“We’re still in a great position,” said Taunton’s head of football Rob Dray. “But we were second best to Merthyr all over the park.

“It’s a tight division, with every side capable of beating another on their day. Every side dropped points over the Christmas and New Year period, which shows you how tough it is.”

Defender Shane White is ruled out with a cheekbone injury, but Ryan Brett (knee) and Pierce Mitchell (dead leg) are both likely to be fit after missing the Merthyr game four days ago.

“We’re a prize scalp now for every team, and we have to get used to that,” added Dray, who has been in charge at Taunton since September. “This is where mental toughness and resilience will play a crucial role.”

Taunton will be chasing a double, having beaten Dorchester 2-1 away in September.

Second-placed Weymouth are at home to Tiverton this afternoon, while Salisbury, in third, have the same test as Taunton did on New Year’s Day – away to Welsh outfit Merthyr.

Swindon Supermarine have rocketed up the table in recent weeks, and will look to maintain their good recent run away to fellow mid-tablers Farnborough this afternoon.

Second-from-bottom Frome, meanwhile, are four points shy of safety and in need of a victory at home to Wimborne, who are six points better off.