Star striker set for long spell on the sidelines

10:41am Thursday 27th September 2007

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Halesowen Town have been dealt a massive blow ahead of their big FA Cup tie at home to Bedworth on Saturday with the news that star striker Duane Darby is set for at least three months on the sidelines.

The veteran forward was the Yeltz's main summer signing having fought off competition from rivals Bromsgrove Rovers for his signature.

The 34-year-old, however, is set for a lengthy time on the sidelines after injuring his achilles in the 1-1 draw with Chippenham at the Grove on Saturday.

Darby is set for a scan today (Thursday) to discover the extent of the injury although Halesowen manager Martin O'Connor believes the best case scenario will still see the player out of action until Christmas.

O'Connor said: "It's terrible news for us and for Duane.

"He's going to have further tests to find out the extent of the injury but I would imagine he's going to be out for three months at least."

The loss of the targetman comes as a big body blow to O'Connor who believes it will be hard to bring in a replacement following chairman Nigel Pitt and his board's decision to walk away from the club at the end of the season.

O'Connor added: "With the way things are after the chairman made his decision it's going to be difficult to bring a replacement in under the present climate."

The Yeltz have also been dealt further bad news ahead of the second round qualifying cup tie after defender Jeff Forsythe was diagnosed with glandular fever.

The manager is expecting a tough test against their BGB Midlands Division One opponents after seeing them beat Chasetown 2-1 away on Tuesday evening.

O'Connor said: "This is a big game for us and after seeing them first hand it will not be easy.

"They are decent side who are well organised and physical."

Cradley Town put their poor league form to one side as they progressed through to the next round of the FA Vase after beating Ellesmere Rangers .

Managerless Town sit bottom of the Midland Alliance after losing away to high-flying Westfields on Tuesday.

The club will be hoping to transfer their cup form to the league when they host Coalville on Saturday.

Temporary boss and Cradley director of football Paul Madders said discussions were going well regarding a new management team.

He said: "On the management vacancy, I have already met one interested management team, with two others contacting me showing interest as we ensure we make the right appointment."