Walton's late change

Aug 13 2008 By John Whitbread, Surrey Herald

WALTON & Hersham manager Jimmy Bolton is expected to make one late addition to his Stompond Lane squad before the season opener at home to Crowborough on Saturday.

The Swans boss returns from holiday tomorrow,with coach Barry Barnes, who has been in charge for the past fortnight saying: "We are making just one change this week, but otherwise the squad have been improving in every department. "With the current strength in depth I know Jimmy will have a tough task picking his first starting XI."

Barnes was particularly pleased with the performance of former Hampton & Richmond favourite Barry Moore, who made his first appearance in midfield in Saturday's final friendly against Carshalton Athletic,after recovering from a knee injury. "Moore showed his class and experience and as he gets to full match fitness I am certain he will play a major role for us," added Barnes. Experienced centre back, Aaron Nowacki, has recovered from the ankle injury that kept him out on Saturday and is likely to be partnered by John Boswell or Matt Elverson at the heart of defence. Tom Carter is back from holiday and could come into consideration on the left of midfield, which is also expected to feature Adam Moriarty,Barry Moore and Craig Dunne.

The strike duo is likely to be chosen from Zak Graham, Phil Cramp and Jack Watkins. "It is very healthy to see such a battle for places," added Barnes.

MEANWHILE neighbours Walton Casuals are also hoping to sign a striker and a midfielder before they make their opening day trip to Kent outfit Ashford Town, who were whip-ping boys last season, but are now among the promotion favourites. "It is going to be a testing start for us, but we can't wait to have a go at them," said manager John Morris. The pre-season build up has left Morris with mixed emotions, however.

After excellent showings in tough matches against Fulham, AFC Wimbledon, Grays and Hampton & Richmond, Casuals have been less than impressive against Molesey and Haywards Heath. "I think sometimes pre-season goes on a bit too long and players can get a bit tired of the 'phoney war'," he said.

Casuals have lost Nana Badu and Steve Tyson to Hampton and Kevin McLaren to Hendon.

In have come former AFC Wimbledon winger Sonny Farr,and ex-Windsor & Eton midfielder Liam Greer,plus former Hayes right back Gary Meakin as player-coach. Jack Francis has also been re-signed on loan from Hampton.