Chelmsford City are facing a major player crisis before one of the most important games of the season tomorrow (Saturday), when they visit fellow promotion favourites Grantham Town in the Dr Martens League Eastern Division.

Definitely out is experienced midfielder Freddie Hyatt, who was this week was diagnosed as having bronchial pneumonia and could miss several games, while Craig Newman and Neil Housley are unavailable because of work commitments.

On top of that Kevin Dobinson still has to serve the second of his two match suspension, because City's last two games have been called off, and Ollie Berquez and Ian Cousins remain on the long term injury list.

But City manager Gary Bellamy remains optimistic and believes that with the right attitude on the day, defending diligently and being brave by playing their passing game, they can come away with at least a point.

"It will be hard but if we set out stall out and the players do what they are told then we can get a result," he said.

Bellamy watched Grantham in their county cup tie derby on Tuesday against Conference League side Boston, who won 1-0, and said: "They are a big, aggressive side with experienced players and two exceptional strikers - but then so have we!"

He said: " They play a regimental style of no-nonsense football and have tremendous vocal support so we know what to expect."

City will miss the influential Hyatt and the team will be: Catley; Girling, Lewis, Bishop, Barber; Mark Taylor, Caton, Ross Taylor, Fuller; Portwa, and Bennett.

On Wednesday (December 6), City host Hastings Town in the league cup (kick off 7.45pm) and the following Saturday visit Witney Town.

For the Grantham match a supporters' club coach will leave the Wood Street roundabout at 11am and the County Hotel, Chelmsford at 11.15am.

The return fare is £7 for adults and £4 for juniors, and to book a seat, telephone 01245 283244.

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