STAND-IN boss Matt Groves has called for a rousing response from Verwood Town at Salisbury while he ponders applying for the permanent post.

Groves, who stepped in on a temporary basis following the surprise resignation of Carl Poore seven days ago, admitted Saturday’s FA Cup shock at Almondsbury UWE had been caused by sloppy second-half defending.

Their task gets no easier tonight (7.45pm) with a Sydenhams Wessex League trip to the Wiltshire giants, who attracted more than 500 spectators to their 9-1 thumping of Bournemouth Poppies last week, but the Potters caretaker wants his young squad to relish the challenge.

Groves told the Daily Echo: “It is probably the biggest away game of the season but one the lads should look forward to playing in.

“If the lads can’t get up for a game of that size then you have a problem, whoever is in charge.”

Regarding the job, he added: “I still haven’t made up my mind yet. I just want to get the next two games out of the way, then I’ll sit down and have a chat with Steve (Jefferis, chairman).”

Suspended goalkeeper Chris Lynch will be replaced by Adam Tong, while the injured Jack Swann and unavailable Liam Donachy miss out.

  • Lymington Town will have to do without the services of Harrison Weeks (injured) Dave Marden and Stuart Williamson (both suspended) for their trip to Moneyfields (7.45pm). 

Moneys have won three out of four Sydenhams Wessex League matches so far, a record Lymo will be looking to emulate having won two out of their three Premier Division clashes. 

Lymo play in the league having received a bye in the first round of the Hampshire Senior Cup.