ACCRINGTON Stanley suffered a blow at the weekend, despite edging closer to achieving their Conference dream.

Central defender Jonathan Smith was an early casualty in Saturday's UniBond League Premier Division 2-2 draw at Droylsden after suffering a broken nose and cheekbone in the 27th minute.

The 27-year-old clashed with the Droylsden keeper but managed to play on for six minutes before being replaced by Robbie Williams.

It was initially feared he would be out for the rest of the season, but manager John Coleman, who saw his side pick up four points this weekend following the draw then 3-0 win at Whitby Town yesterday, is hopeful he will be back later this month.

"It's very disappointing for him but it's not a depressed fracture of the cheekbone," he said.

"He's getting his nose sorted out and he has got the all-clear to play and hopes to be back in action within a fortnight."

Stanley now lead the table by 11 points and a win at their Crown Ground home to Altrincham on Saturday will secure the title - so long as nearest rivals Barrow fail to win at Ashton on the same day.