CHICKERELL will be without influential defender Scott Henley for tonight’s crucial clash at Poole Borough in the Dorset Premier League (7.45pm).

The ex-Weymouth centre-back has a thigh strain but the Chickens are hoping that Graham Biles will be back available to fill the void.

Victory for United at Turlin Moor could take them up to third spot, two points adrift of the second-placed Hornets with two games in hand.

Chickerell boss Maurice Welch, whose side have not suffered defeat since January 3, said: “We have done well to get where we are but there is no doubt that this game is the hardest one we have got left.

“If we can go there and come away with something it would be fantastic but we know it is going to be very tough. Turlin Moor is not the greatest place to go and play, and they are a big, strong side that are very difficult to break down.

“However, we have made ourselves like that as well so I certainly don’t think there will be much in it. It could be one of those games where a mistake or a flash of brilliance could decide it.

“Should we come out on top it would be a massive result for us because I look at our last three games and they are all winnable. It is a bit of a blow losing Scott ahead of tonight but he has been playing with a thigh strain for some time now and needs a rest.

“Gavin Daniels is not available due to work commitments and Liam Miles is a doubt as well but Andy Hall will come back in and hopefully Graham Biles will also return. The other positive news is that Andy Graham and Nick Etherington both came through a reserve game well on Saturday and will also be included in the squad.”

Chickerell and Borough are still both in with a shout of winning the title but for either of them to achieve that they need leaders Portland United to drop points in their last two games.

The Blues take on Wincanton Town at Grove Corner on Thursday night, before completing their campaign on Saturday with another home clash against Sturminster Newton United.

Chickens: A Weeks, Graham, Biles, Miles, D Welch, Evans, Smith, Roper, Sibley, Coltart, Charles, Beads, White, Etherington.