Frustrated boss calls for back-up

13 Aug 2015 By David Watters

Chelmsford City manager Steve Smith is aiming to bring in a new striker in time for Saturday’s home Vanarama National League South clash against Hayes & Yeading.

Smith, pictured, has been left frustrated with the chances that have gone begging in City’s first two league games, including a crucial missed penalty.

Last Saturday they drew 2-2 at Oxford City, with both sides wasting spot kicks. On Monday, they went down 1-0 at home to Hemel Hempstead Town, again missing a penalty while failing to create clear-cut chances.

Smith wants a seasoned striker to give support to Billy Bricknell. While youngster Hugo Skepelhorn has done well, he is still learning and the City manager believes someone with more experience is urgently needed.

City's Melbourne Stadium

"We're working on that,” said Smith. “If we can do that it will be a big plus for us and it will be someone who knows this level."

City have signed Halstead Town striker Jonah Gosling while MK Dons defender Harry Hickford has returned on loan to the Melbourne Stadium after leaving the club last season.

Smith also has a problem to solve at right-back with Rob Girdlestone sidelined with a broken nose for the next two weeks.

Where next?

Prudent boss stretched budget for Forest ace Eastleigh manager Richard Hill has been hailing the arrival of defender Dan Harding at the Vanarama National League leaders.

Cox tipped to be around for years to come Torquay United's CEO Steve Breed believes manager Paul Cox's commitment to the Vanarama National League Gulls is for the long term. has said he believes manager Paul Cox will stay with the club "for a long time".