A mixed bag for Scholars

Chasetown have received a mixed bulletin as they prepare for the club's biggest day in their history.

Captain Lee Parsons is suspended for Sunday's FA Cup second round tie at Port Vale.

But key defender Chris Slater has declared himself fit after missing three games with a knee injury.

Parsons is said to be distraught at missing out on the landmark occasion, but boss Charlie Blakemore says his absence will be another incentive for his players.

"Lee only misses one game and he can't believe it's the biggest one of his life," said Blakemore."But it will spur us on to give him another game in the next round.

"Chris has come through a full training session in a practice game we had on Saturday morning."

Typically, Chasetown's busy schedule means their preparations to the Cup tie are not easy.

Their British Gas Business Southern League Midland division clash at Evesham tonight has been postponed because the Worcestershire side are in FA Trophy replay action at Redditch.

But Blakemore sends his side into action on Thursday against Heath Hayes in the Walsall Senior Cup quarter final, when he will field a mixed side of cup-tied and fringe players.

Tickets for Vale, priced £19, £12.50 and £8, are still available. Chasetown expect to sell around 3,000 of the 4,500 seats.

by Tim Nash