BASHLEY are scrambling to find a goalkeeper for tomorrow’s trip to St Albans (7.45pm) as they bid to avoid a repeat of yesterday’s 7-1 trouncing at Cambridge City.

Joint-boss Paul Gazzard admitted he could don the gloves should his search for a stopper prove fruitless after revealing regular custodian Nic Jones was ruled out with suspected appendicitis.

Gazzard, who kept a clean sheet during a 15-minute stint between the sticks for Bash two years ago, came close to a wearing the number one jersey at New Milton Town earlier this season before Jones recovered from a knee complaint.

However, with the Saints boasting one of the Southern League’s most prolific strikers in John Frendo, the Bash boss conceded it would be “far from ideal” to play without a recognised keeper.

Gazzard told the Daily Echo: “Last time I kept a clean sheet and, to be honest, I would be quite happy to leave it at that but needs-must.

“John Frendo always proved a handful during his days at Hitchin but I am sure I can give him a run for his money if I do end up in goal. Who knows? I might come out and win a few headers!”

Five goals from Adam Marriott sandwiched a brace for Josh Dawkin as Bash were battered by high-flying Cambridge. George Colson grabbed the late consolation.

“It wasn’t good,” admitted Gazzard. “But we are a side without much experience at this level and this will happen to us from time to time, especially against some of the quality sides.

“The lads have been brilliant over the past few weeks and I think they can be forgiven one bad performance in five or six matches.”

Dave Marden (Achilles) and Declan Edwards (knee) miss the trip to Clarence Park but Adam Flint should return after being recalled by Salisbury City at the weekend.

Bash: Jones, Roberts, Morris, Strickland, Marden (Ferguson, 63), Colson, Blackmore, Satterley, Joyce (Brookes, 74), Odam, Soetan. Unused sub: Gazzard.