TOMMY SAUNDERS' selection problems have hit a new low ahead of Chippenham's Wiltshire Premier Shield trip to Salisbury.

The Bluebirds already have a crippling injury list featuring Gareth Davies, Mark Harrington, Matt Rawlins, Steve Brown and James Bittner.

Now competition rules dictate that no players signed on after the original tie was scheduled in January can play.

That means Scott Walker, JP Mills, Dave Godley and Jimmy Fraser who has re-signed to boost the ailing squad are ineligible.

Most crucially, the Wiltshire FA's red tape prevents back-up goalkeeper Liam Bull from playing, so Town are without a recognised shot-stopper for the semi-final, second leg tie.

Saunders moaned: "It's a farcical rule. If the Wilts FA aren't careful they are in danger of belittling their senior competition.

"As it stands, we will either have to play Martin Paul or Charlie Griffin in goal or our under 18 keeper Toby Deeprose.

"It's not ideal, but I'm confident we can get through."

The tie is finely balanced after a 3-3 draw in the first leg at Hardenhuish. Griffin hit a hat-trick in that game, but he might have to swap his shooting boots for his goalkeeping gloves this evening.

HIGHWORTH boss John Fisher also has injury worries ahead of Yate's Hellenic Premier Division visit tonight.

Andy Wollen and Martin Churchward have been joined on the sidelines by Tony Joyce who broke a leg playing Sunday League football at the weekend. Dave Webb has picked up a knee injury too, and both are set to miss the rest of the season.

Justin Miller, Matt Jack and Matt Saye are also struggling with strains and knocks.

Fisher is trying to draft in some Southern League players on loan to fill the void.

In the Screwfix Premier Division, Melksham entertain Bridport.