Matlock joint boss Phil Brown was hopeful of adding a central defender to his ranks in time for this weekend's home clash with Leek Town.

 

If everything went to plan, the new recruit would come to the Geoquip Stadium on loan for the rest of the season, and would be a welcome addition to their squad even if their current injury problems appear to be receeding.

 

There was relief for the Gladiators fans with the return of both skipper James Lukic and leading scorer Simon Barraclough for the Boxing Day home derby with Ilkeston Town that finished 1-1.

 

"It was good to have James and Simon back and with others coming back in as well we looked more like our old selves and we were pleased with the performance. It was disappointing to concede the equaliser in the second half for we'd dominated the first half, gone in front and created quite a few chances and could have been two or three up before they scored. We had a lot of players coming back and we're delighted that they lasted as long as they did. Both James and Simon got a full ninety minutes in, and although they tired towards the end, they reported no ill effects. We think we've probably turned the corner and things are looking a little brighter."

 

There were one or two minor casualties during a physical game with Matty Caudwell having to come off with a hip injury, and new signings Nathan Benger and Adam Kay also not lasting the full match. Benger, whose 8th minute goal gave the Gladiators the lead was feeling under the weather with a stomach complaint, while central defender Kay's debut lasted just over a minute, falling victim to a reckless challenge by Robins boss Nigel Jemson, who should really have received a red card, not only for that challenge, but for some earlier equally nasty tackles.

 

"Adam's nose is a bit smashed but he'll be okay, and we expect them all to come through alright and be available for the weekend" said Brown who received a boost when Glenn Kirkwood sent him a text on Boxing Day morning saying he was fit and available if required.

 

"Kirky will always probably have problems with his feet and we were delighted that he threw his name into the hat for it gave us that extra bit of experience" said Brown.

 

Midfielder Neil Ashley missed out through illness on Boxing Day but Steve Circuit was available to replace him. Circuit should retain his place for the Leek game with Ashley not thought to be feeling strong enough to last n inety minutes. Ashley will probably be saved until the New Years Day trip to Buxton with Circuit being at work. Striker Steve Taylor and defender Ryan Davis will probably not return for at least another week.

 

The draw with the Robins saw Matlock swap places with Ossett Town who surprisingly went down at home to Frickley. The eighth placed Gladiators will be looking for at least four points from the Leek and Buxton clashes but Brown knows his side will have to work hard.

 

"They'll be two tough games for both are difficult sides to overcome but we're getting people back and fitter so we'll go into the New Year on a more positive note. We came up against a physical Ilkeston side and were delighted with the way the lads stood up to them. We've also put seven days notice in on two or three more players so we're waiting to get permission to speak to them, so if we can get them in as well, we'll be looking a lot stronger."