Boss Richie Powling is sweating on the fitness of four key players as Clacton Town gear up for the biggest game of their season - the Jewson League Cup final.

The in-form Seasiders, holders of the prestigious trophy after last year's success against Dereham, go head-to-head with Wroxham in tonight's showdown, being staged at Diss Town.

And, riding on the crest of a wave after losing only once in 11 games, boss Powling told the Evening Gazette: "The spirit and organisation in the squad is superb.

"Winning the cup would be a terrific way to end what's been a very good season.

"We're a club in transition - bearing in mind we've virtually rebuilt the squad from scratch - so this would be a terrific achievement."

Powling is waiting on the fitness of four players: Gary Hudson, Andy Head, Lenny Pack and Aren Howell.

Hudson - one of the few surviving members of last year's squad - twisted his ankle against Woodbridge but played the last ten minutes of Saturday's game against Fakenham.

Pack is struggling with a niggling injury while Head aggravated an old hamstring problem at the weekend.

Hamstring-injury victim Howell is another player set for a late fitness test.

"We will be very proud if we pull it off, but we know we're in for a tough game."

Published Wednesday, April 16, 2003

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