Tony Vance’s Guernsey squad for the visit of Ashford Town will contain a new face in the form of former semi-professional Dave Merris.
41-year-old Merris has been playing, and coaching, at Priaulx League side Belgrave Wanderers since moving to the island last season. His semi-pro CV has some famous names on it, including spells at York City and Harrogate Town, as well as Guiseley, Ossett Town, Scarborough Athletic and Pickering Town. He began his career in the youth sides of Rotherham United.
In other squad news, Sam Murray is representing Northerners this weekend, while Kieran Mahon misses a second consecutive game with injury, but Thomas Dodds is back after an absence last week. There could also be a first appearance of the season for forward Glenn Le Tissier. Keene Domaille serves the final match of his suspension, while Tom Martin’s ban begins after his red card against Chertsey Town. Josh Addison returns to compete with Jason Martin for the number one shirt.
The full squad is as follows: Martin, Addison, Marsh, Fallaize, Dodd, Vaudin, Alvarez, Merris, Dodds, L Mahon, Loaring, Hale, Pereira, Le Tissier, Fazakerley.
The Sarnians are seeking a second win of the season, and a first at home, which could take them into mid-table. Ashford, who finished two points and one place about Guernsey in Isthmian South Central last season, have won three of their last four league games, most recently beating early pace setters Northwood.
The Tangerines did the double over GFC last season, winning 3-2 at home and 2-1 at Footes Lane.
Saturday’s match kicks off at 2pm. Fans unable to make it to Footes Lane can follow live coverage on GFCTV. An update on the new pay-per-view service for GFCTV can be found here. Highlights and a full match report will be on the website over the weekend.
