Great Wakering Rovers' bid to reach the last 16 of the FA Carlsberg Vase has been hit by a suspension which rules out giant central defender Tommy Dalgarno.

Dalgarno misses out under the bookings "totting-up" system as the village side line-up for one of the biggest matches in their history on Saturday.

They host strong Liverpool-based side Vauxhall in the fourth round of the Vase knowing that they will need to be in top gear to earn a place in Monday's draw, which goes ahead at Bradford City, for a place in the quarter-finals.

The game kicks-off at 3pm and Wakering officials are anxious that fans should arrive early to minimise car-parking problems.

Both Wakering and Vauxhall, who play in the North-West Counties, are top of their respective League tables.

Rovers, of course, are enjoying a fabulous first season in Division Three of the Ryman League and much of the credit goes to striking duo Paul Flack and Mark Hampshire, who have notched no less than 43 goals between them in all matches so far.

However, it is their all-round strength that is the major factor behind Wakering's success, which was given a further boost in midweek when Hornchurch, lying third and one of their main promotion rivals, suffered a shock defeat at Corinthian Casuals.

Wakering will, in fact, lose top spot tomorrow on goal difference if, while they are away on Vase duty, East Thurrock win at Lewes. However, it will be something of a major surprise if, come May, Eddie Nash's village outfit are not occupying a top three spot to win first-time promotion.

They have a useful blend of youth and experience with Ollie Evans undoubtedly the best of a crop of young talent.

Vauxhall were travelling down to Wakering today and if a replay is necessary it will be played at the motor side's Ellesmere Port ground tomorrow week.

Great threat - from Wakering's 21-goal hitman Paul Flack (left)

Picture: STEPHEN LLOYD

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