Thurrock may be without one of their most versatile players for the next few weeks.

Midfielder Martyn Lawrence may have broken his ankle at Tuesday night's game against Redbridge.

The travelling Ship Laners won the encounter 1-2. But Lawrence - who can work on the wing, in midfield or even back into defence - was helped off. There are fears that his ankle may be broken.

Lawrence is one of the unsung heroes of the Thurrock side. He was brought to the club by manager Colin McBride from Concord in 1997 and since has appeared in a yellow shirt close to more than 270 times.

Thurrock will be hoping that their striking duo of Cliff Akurang and Tresor Kandol - who both hit the spot against Redbridge on Tuesday night - are on form for the visit of struggling on Saturday.

Thurrock have won their last five matches - with only the Christmas and New Year defeats by near neighbours and league leaders Grays to blot the copybook - and McBride will want to make it six of the best.

Mark Stimson's Grays travel to Sutton the team they beat by two goals in the FA Trophy 3rds round two weeks ago.

The seemingly unstoppable momentum in the Blues camp continues with the news that both midfielder Stuart Thurgood and Mitchell Cole have been named in a 32-man initial squad for the forthcoming International with Holland - to be played on Wednesday, February 16 at Woking FC's Kingfield Stadium.

This will be the 17th meeting between the two sides, with England winning 12 and the Dutch yet to record a victory.

Eighteen-year-old Cole came to Grays on a one year contract in August 2004. The left footed midfielder was a former Hammer.

Millers travel to Arlesey. And it's an away trip too for Rocks who travel to Boreham Wood. Getting this one right could see East Thurrock a step closer to second slot in Southern League Division One East.

Tilbury entertain Leighton Town.

Saturday, January 29 Conference South: Thurrock v Margate, Sutton United v Grays Southern League Division One East: Aveley v Arlesey, East Thurrock United v Boreham Wood, Tilbury v Leighton Town

Tuesday February 1 Southern League Division One East: Tilbury v East Thurrock United

Published Monday January 31, 2005

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