Smith sold
By Adam Summers

Friday 26th January 2007

TERRAS’ player-manager Jason Tindall is facing a selection crisis ahead of tomorrow’s Nationwide Conference National clash against Northwich Victoria tomorrow.

Not only was it confirmed yesterday that skipper Ben Smith has left the club for Coca-Cola League Two side Hereford United but there are also injury concerns hanging over full back Trevor Challis (hamstring), defender Roy O’Brien (ankle) and striker Raphael Nade (ankle).

The Bulls have signed Smith for an undisclosed fee and Tindall admits that it is a big loss.

He said: “It is a massive disappointment but Ben put a transfer request in and he felt with what has gone on here that it was time for him to move on.

“Ben knows everything about Hereford having played there before, they made the club a good offer and we just have to get on without him now.

“We have lost some quality players from this squad recently but we have all got to stick together and keep moving in the same direction. If we can do that and show the fighting spirit that I know we can we won’t go far wrong.”

To make matters worse for the Terras striker Chukki Eribenne did not train yesterday sparking rumours that he could be the next one to depart the Wessex Stadium.

Speaking yesterday Tindall said: “Chukki had an appointment to attend today but he will be back in training with us tomorrow morning.”

One positive piece of news is the arrival of Brian Dutton. The ex-Cambridge United man has rejoined the club on non-contract terms.

Tindall said: “I have not seen too much of Dutts but Roy spoke to me about him and in training he has applied himself very well. He is working hard on his fitness and we are looking forward to getting the best out of him.”

Tindall watched his men lose 4-0 at Exeter City on Tuesday in what was his first game in charge. He is now hoping that the Terras can enjoy a change of fortunes against the Vics in their first home game since December 29.

“I think we learned a lot from the other night at Exeter. We were disappointed with the manner in which we conceded the goals and we now want to put that right. The Northwich game is now a great opportunity for us to get back on the right track, and the lads are looking forward to it.”

Northwich are currently 15th but they do possess a decent away record with six wins from 12 games. They have also won three out of their last four.

Tindall said: “We have to give Northwich the utmost respect that they deserve but we have a fantastic record at home and despite everything that has happened we are still looking to push on.

“I think a major factor is going to be the support we get from the fans. I know this is a difficult time for everybody involved with the club but if the fans can give us their backing and be nice and vocal then that would be like a 12th man for us.”