Suspended leading scorer Steve Hutchings will be a 'massive loss' to Moneyfields

The club’s leading marksman was sent off in the closing stages of the 4-1 defeat at Cirencester last Saturday for dissent.

The powerful striker will miss two games and manager Dave Carter admitted: ‘Steve will be a massive loss.

‘He has scored five goals in the last three games, including the winner in midweek against Mangotsfield.

‘His overall record of 217 goals in 300 games is a fantastic tally.

‘When he is not in the side, the team suffers.

‘It is no coincidence that last season our dips in form were when he was out suspended.

‘He is a leader and a winner out on the pitch.

‘In a way, maybe, it is a good thing he can't play against Bristol Manor Farm.

‘He has been sent off against them three times in the last three seasons.

‘So if it hadn't been last week, it could easily have been this week.’

Carter will consider how he can minimise the absence of Hutchings.

With striker Ryan Pennery out injured, one option will be to move big central defender Sam Pearce up front.

Pearce has played that role before and is capable of scoring goals.

He would certainly give the home side a continued physical presence up front.

They would, however, miss him at the back.

But this could be alleviated by the return of experienced defender Brett Poate from injury.

Carter is also considering including Curtis Da Costa, who has hardly played since having surgery on his shoulder in the summer.

Another big blow is the loss of club captain Lewis Fennemore in midfield after he suffered a recurrence of a back problem in midweek.

The 1-0 win against Mangotsfield was a big result for Moneyfields, lifting them nine points ahead of rock bottom Barnstaple.

‘Winning in midweek gave us a little bit more breathing space,’ said Carter.

‘Our home form has been good.

‘Although we have drawn too many at home, we have only lost twice at Dover Road.

‘Bristol Manor Farm are only a couple of places above us and we have games in hand on them.

‘Our biggest challenge is getting the game on with Storm Dennis coming in.’

The Moneys will be after some revenge after two losses at Manor Farm this season - 3-1 in the league and 7-1 in the FA Trophy.