FOUR reserve team players are expected to get the chance to stake a claim for a Nelson first team spot tomorrow.
After the Blues picked up a number of injuries in Saturday's Division Two Trophy draw with Great Harwood, Duncan Bennett, Chris Halstead, Chris Gaskell and Richard Bradley all stepped into the starting line-up for the replay on Monday night.
And while Nelson lost the game 2-0, assistant manager Ian Lang was impressed with the first team newcomers.
"The goal that effectively decided the game was a mistake by our left back, but the lads who came through did very well and didn't let themselves down," he said.
"And I think they will be pressing hard to remain in the squad for tomorrow."
Nelson travel to take on Leek CSOB in the League Challenge Cup looking to avoid another replay.
But Lang admitted they would take whatever came their way.
"I believe Leek are quite a good footballing side and try to get the ball down and operate a passing game," he said.
"We try to play the same way so I would think it will be a good game and a close encounter.
"A replay wouldn't do for us at all because we are due a league fixture in midweek, but I suppose if it has to be a draw then at least we would be at home."
Martin Brown (calf), goalkeeper Billy Carrington (ankle) and Dan Caton (shin) will have fitness tests, while Paul Sconce and Craig Bradshaw are unavailable this weekend.
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