Ramos injury gives Johnson headache
by Matt Pitman

Friday 31st December 2004


STEVE Johnson faces a goalkeeping crisis ahead of the return Dorset derby with Dorchester Town at the
Wessex Stadium tomorrow, 3pm.

Regular gloveman Jason Matthews is still suspended after receiving a two-match ban, while understudy Francisco Ramos is a severe doubt after suffering an ankle injury during the Boxing Day defeat against the Magpies.

That means Johnson could be set to hand 17-year-old Simon Evans his full debut if he fails to secure a loan keeper in time and Ramos fails to recover from his knock.

He told Echosport: "Jason is serving the last of his two match suspension and at the moment I'd say that Francisco's chances of playing are no better than 50-50.

"He has been on crutches this week with a swollen ankle he received when he was trod on by Jamie Brown in the game up at Dorchester on Boxing Day.

"If he doesn't recover in time, it may be that young Simon Evans will be given his debut.

"If that proves to be the case I've got no problem with it because I see Simon as being the club's keeper in
a few years time.

"He's got stacks of ability and potential and I've got no doubts he will one day be a top, top keeper.

"But ideally I don't want to put the lad in a position of playing in front of a big crowd which could potentially ruin his confidence so it may be that I'll have to try and bring a loan keeper in.

"If I can't get a deal done in time however, Simon will definitely get the call and I'm confident he will do well if that proves to be the case."

Johnson will give winger Adam Wilde a late fitness test on a groin strain before picking his side.

Johnson reckons his players are chomping at the bit ahead of the return derby.

"Despite the 4-1 defeat up there or Boxing Day, it's not all doom and gloom" said Johnson.

"The players know what's needed tomorrow and can't wait to get out there and put things right.

"The simply difference between the two sides up at Dorchester was that they outbattled and bullied us nothing more than that.

"I've got faith in my players, know we ve got more quality than them and now just want them to go outthere and prove it.

"If we do end up losing again it won t be for the want of hard work and effort that's for sure."

Another player making a welcome return for Johnson is Dave Waterman.

The defender has missed the last month with an ankle ligament injury, but has now returned to training and could play some part against the Magpies.

Johnson said: "Dave is back in training now which is good news because he is a player with ability.

"Tomorrow's game may be a bit too soon for him but it's good that he's available again."

Waterman's return means Weymouth's crocked list now fea tures only midfielder Martin Barlow and defender Jamie Impey who both have back injuries.