MELKSHAM Town fans may think their side have nothing left to play for this season, but according to Nigel Tripp the players' futures are at stake.

Ahead of tomorrow's match at Bridport, the Melksham boss has launched an attack on the attitude of some of his players and warned them they have six games left to prove themselves.

Melksham fielded a strong reserve side, including six first team regulars, against Corsham Town Reserves on Tuesday night, but to Tripp's anger they lost 2-1.

After an inconsistent season that sees Melksham in midtable of the Premier Division, Tripp has pulled no punches about the importance of the next few games.

He said: "It really is make or break for them now. Tuesday night was full of first team players and players on the fringe and it was a great chance for them to prove they deserve their place.

"But we were rubbish. We have six games left and I want the lads to start showing their desire. They either do it or they go.

"I was not impressed with the attitude of the lads and I haven't been for most of the season. This has to change."

Melksham are looking for a treble over Bridport tomorrow having beaten them in the league and cup already this season, but Tripp is expecting a tough match.

He said: "They have picked up in recent weeks and are a strong physical team so it will not be easy.

"My players have to stand up and be counted. I want to win four games at least between now and the end of the season.

"The players have just been going through the motions lately and I am not going to put up with it. We should be looking towards next season.

"As a manager nothing changes just because we are midtable in the league. I still put the same effort in getting everything organised and the players should be doing the same."

Midfielder Adi Stagg is in line for a return tomorrow after recovering from injury but experienced defender Jason Lunt is still ruled out.

Ali Wicks has joined Melksham and will start in goal tomorrow with regular keeper Gareth Evans unavailable because of work commitments.

Wicks played for Melksham Town Reserves last season and has also enjoyed spells at Westbury United and Corsham Town.