BRIDPORT boss Rob Marquis admits he has concerns over Bridport’s defence ahead of the trip to second-placed Bitton on Saturday (3pm).
Goalkeeper Greg Taylor and centre-half Dan Baggs miss the trip to the Toolstation Western League Premier Division title contenders.
Their absences come as Bridport’s goal difference worsened to minus 80 from 20 games following the 5-0 loss at Saltash United on Saturday.
Speaking to the Bridport News, Marquis said: “It’s the one game Greg’s not available.
“Dan’s not available, so already I’m thinking: ‘Here we go’. Josh Baker is suspended.
“I’ll talk to Shaun (Annetts, assistant) and we’ll have a discussion about it. It looks pretty ominous.
“I thought Helston were good but I thought Bitton were one of the better sides we’ve played this year.
READ MORE: Saltash United 5-0 Bridport - match report
“It is a bit of a worry, if I’m honest. While it sounds defeatist, we need to come up with a strategy.
“There are certain games between now and the end of the season we’ve got to target.
“We can put out the strongest 11 we can and scrape a couple of results.
“I’d never go into a game expecting to lose, but I’m realistic. That’s a tough ask at the weekend.
“Bitton were a good side when we played them at home. I wouldn’t start a game with damage limitation but it does spring into your head a little bit.”
Malakai Stanners should return this week after international duty with the British Virgin Islands.
Bridport Reserves beat Gillingham Town Reserves 2-1 in the Dorset Senior Trophy.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here