Maldon Town are raring to go after their Boxing Day fixture with neighbours Tiptree United was called off due to a frozen pitch.

Manager Colin Wallington has a doubt over the fitness of goalkeeper Dean Mahoney and reserve Ed Wootton remains on standby.

Striker Neil Cousins, who was unavailable for Saturday's fine 4-1 win over Dereham Town, is likely to remain on the bench.

Wallington said: "I'll be playing the same team that I was going to field against Tiptree.

"We are playing well at the moment. It has made a huge difference getting Craig Huttley and Paul Younan back. They have added balance to the team."

Huttley was out for seven weeks through injury, while Younan has been serving a lengthy suspension after being sent-off twice towards the end of last season. Wallington added: "We have been inconsistent, but against Dereham we put up our best display of the season.

"As far as the league is concerned, the division is so tight this season that three wins and we would be right back up near the top."

Clacton will be hoping to carry on where they left on Boxing Day after routing coastal rivals Harwich and Parkeston 6-0 at The Royal Oak.

The in-form Seasiders who scored through Sean Hillier (two), Jimmy Clewley (two), Neil Shade and Bobby Mayes have netted 11 goals and conceded none in their last two games.

And they emerged with no fresh injury worries against the Shrimpers, although long-term casualty Chris Senk is still unavailable.

Boss Mick Potter said: "Maldon were one of my tips to do well this season. I think they've got a decent squad and a good manager.

"It's a huge game for both sides so should be entertaining."

Published Friday December 28, 2001