Saints look to upset FA Cup headliners

ST Albans City go away to Havant and Waterlooville on Saturday in the Blue Square South.

Steve Castle will continue his role as caretaker boss and could press his claims for the permanent position if he can mastermind a priceless City win.

Havant host their FA Cup third round replay with Swansea on Wednesday and City will hope to take advantage of any distractions. Havant crashed to a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Bishop's Stortford on Tuesday. Former Saint Gary Elphick started the match for the depleted Hawks while FA Cup goalscoring hero Rocky Baptiste came off the bench in the second half.

City striker Richard Butler is hopeful that he may be fit enough to return to the squad and play some part in the game. The former AFC Wimbledon player has been suffering with an ankle injury.

Full back Damian Batt is unlikely to be returning to Clarence Park. The former City star has been transfer listed by Stevenage Borough and was at the City game on Saturday, fuelling speculation of a return. Batt, who is expected to leave on a free transfer, is considering a number of offers.

Saints are attempting to bring striker Simon Martin back to the club in a loan deal from Conference South outfit Hayes and Yeading United.

City goalkeeper Nick Eyre was cautioned by referee Ian Crouch following the final whistle on Saturday. He became the fifth City player to pick up a yellow card on the day with Craig Vargas, Jon Stevenson, Lee Clarke also in the book and Jomo Faal-Thomas given his marching orders for two yellows. Paul Bruce received a straight red card and is now expected to serve a five match suspension, three matches for the dismissal and two for reaching 10 bookings this term. Clarke is one booking away from a two-game ban, on nine yellow cards.

Assistant Andy Edwards, helping out Steve Castle, was reported for misconduct after the match by the referee.