BOSS Tom Killick is hoping to avoid a major attacking headache as Poole Town bid to finally end 30 years of FA Cup hurt.

Dolphins will be aiming to reach the competition proper for the first time since 1983-84 when they visit Staines Town tomorrow (3pm).

But Poole’s quest to emerge from the qualifying rounds could be threatened by as many as four of their key forwards missing the club’s date with destiny.

Dan Cann and Carl Preston are both suspended, while manager Killick is also sweating on the fitness of Michael Charles (knee) and Richard Gillespie (foot).

Killick told the Daily Echo: “Even if you take Carl Preston out of the equation as a winger, we have four strikers and will definitely be without one, while another two are struggling.

“If we were without three of our four strikers, it would certainly limit our options. It is just unfortunate timing for us.”

Dolphins’ fourth qualifying round clash at Wheatsheaf Park will see them clash with a mid-table Conference South outfit who boast a 100 per cent record on home territory this term.

Killick added: “We have been quite fortunate in that we got a very detailed report from a third party and we have also sent someone to watch them. We know a lot about them and, normally, we don’t have that sort of luxury.

“We have to do as well as we can and hope that proves to be enough. It would be amazing for the club, and everyone connected with it, to reach the first round proper.

“It is one of those painful scenarios when we are so near yet so far because we are facing a huge task of trying to beat a club from a higher level away from home.”