Poulton loses defensive stalwart Sean
HAYLING United aim to extend their winning run to five games in a row when they entertain Brading Town at The College Ground tonight (Tuesday).
United are without the physical presence of Sean Thurgood at the back because of work commitments and were waiting to hear if playmaker George Way is suspended for the Wesssex League Premier Division game against the Isle of Wight team, which kicks off at 7.45pm.
Boss Mark Poulton said: "Losing Sean is a blow because he and Nic Edgington have been rocks in the heart of our defence."
Saturday's 1-0 home win over Winchester City followed two victories on the road in the Wessex League Premier Division, and is United's best run since Poulton took over the Humbugs just over a year ago.
Having failed to win a single league game in the first three months of his tenure, United can't stop winning and have gone a long way to ending any fears of relegation in the last fortnight.
The return of marathon man Edgington and the arrival of Paulsgrove's midfield veteran Steve Leigh has coincided with Poulton's men's upturn in fortunes after some poor performances, particularly on the road before and after Christmas.
Edgington, who has been a long-serving striker for United before hanging up his boots earlier in the season to concentrate on his marathon running, has been brought back into the fold as a makeshift defender.
And 39-year-old Leigh's experience after impressing in the Portsmouth Senior Cup semi-final at the end of February has helped the youngsters in the Humbugs squad and fellow midfielder Josh Case in particular.
Poulton said: "Josh Case has been subdued up until now because he has found himself forced more and more into a defensive role.
"Bringing Steve Leigh in and playing him just in front of the back four has allowed Josh and George Way to get forward more.
"Josh thrived on that and his goal against Winchester on Saturday was just reward for his fine performance."
Edgington came back into the side at Alresford as United ran out 3-2 winners and instantly formed a strong barrier with Thurgood, who has played at the highest level in non-league football.
And they teamed up again to ensure a shut out against Winchester, who had former Pompey central defender Guy Butters in the heart of their defence.
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Weather for Hayling
Friday 25 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 13 C to 25 C
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Temperature: 13 C to 23 C
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