POOLE Town boss Tom Killick played down the significance of Weymouth’s shock setback at second-bottom Bedworth ahead of tonight’s El Jurassico at Tatnam (7.45pm).

Terras player-manager Jason Matthews ripped into his squad after Saturday’s 3-2 defeat in Warwickshire, questioning the desire of his promotion chasers.

But Killick insists the result will have little bearing on the eagerly-anticipated derby between the teams sitting second and fourth in the Southern League.

Killick told the Daily Echo: “Weymouth’s defeat was a pleasant surprise because you always want your rivals to drop points.

“But with the way the season has gone for so many sides in the top six, it wasn’t as a big a surprise as it may have been in previous seasons. Everyone is striving for that little bit of consistency because it is not really happening for any of the teams at the top.

“I tend to look at squads rather than results and there is no doubt that on paper, Weymouth are very strong with players that have good experience of higher levels.

“You know motivation will not be an issue when they play us and whether they come to our place on the back of five wins or five defeats, we know it is going to be a really tough encounter.”

Poole, undefeated in the league since November but on a run of four straight draws, enter the clash seven points clear of Weymouth with a game in hand and Killick acknowledged that victory could be significant in what has been a tight tussle for supremacy so far.

“Looking at the number of teams up there, I don’t think the result will be massively significant for the title race but if we do win, it would put us in quite a strong position over them,” he added.

“Last season, we got into the train of thought of looking at future results and how things would pan out but we have tried not to do that this time.

“We feel it detracts from things and you can take your eye off what’s important. We have brought some pressure on ourselves with some indifferent results so it does enhance the importance of this game. It’s a big one for both sides.”

Killick has a full squad to choose from with long-term absentee Jamie Gleeson finally ready for a return to action.

“The one benefit you get with prolonged inactivity is a clean bill of health,” said Killick. “We are in good shape and have everyone fit and available.

“Glees has been given the go ahead to resume playing, pending a scan on his chest problem. There is still some concern but the specialist says he can take part.

“He has been out for a long time so he may not be in the squad against Weymouth but it is a boost for us, albeit one we view with caution.”