Peacocks bolster defence with Blair signing (From Dudley News)

Peacocks bolster defence with Blair signing

3:05pm Thursday 24th January 2013 in Football

GORNAL Athletic have expanded their defensive options with the signing of Robert Blair.

Manager Ian Rowe has swooped for the experienced centre-back who will also be eligible for the Peacocks fourth round FA Vase clash with Wisbech Town, whenever it gets played.

Rowe is familiar with Blair, who played for him at Dudley Town and has also taken in spells at Stratford Town and Causeway United.

He said: “Rob’s been playing for our reserves after picking up an injury at Stratford last year.

“We managed to get him on board before the Vase deadline so it gives us a few more options.

“With Lee Moore cup-tied we were starting to look a bit short.

“I know Rob well, he is an experienced defender and a decent player. It will add a bit more competition for places.”

The Wisbech clash has been rearranged for this Saturday and Gornal also expect to welcome back skipper Lee Wherton, who has fully recovered from damaged ankle ligaments.

Despite no fourth round ties taking place last weekend, the fifth round draw has already been made and if Rowe’s men beat Wisbech they face a lengthy jaunt to either AFC Ashington in Northumbria or Bodmin Town in Cornwall.

The Peacocks have only played 17 league games so far this season and Rowe admits the mounting fixture backlog is becoming a concern.

He said: “Losing all these games is going to kill us.

“We are so far behind other teams now it is becoming a real concern.

“The way things are looking we will end the season playing three or four times a week.”

Tividale are in a slightly better position in terms of fixture congestion, having played three more league games.

Dean Whiteshouse’s side are due to host league leaders Stratford Town this Saturday.