GREAT Harwood are facing a defensive crisis just days before the start of the new season.

Central defenders Neil Kennedy, Warren Peake, Dave Livesey and Neil Baron are all struggling with injuries and midfielder Jamie Smith, who played at centre half in the 6-4 win over Clitheroe United last night, had to come off injured.

Harwood could be without a recognised central defender for their North West Counties First Division opener away at Winsford United on Saturday.

"I have a defensive dilemma with five centre halves out injured but Neil should be okay for Saturday," said manager Denis Underwood.

"Jamie can play the first four games of the season and then he is suspended for three weeks so maybe we can get him through those games and then get him sorted."

Underwood faced a defensive crisis in goal last light. He was forced to play himself for the first 20 minutes before Russell Whalley -- the Rishton cricketer -- turned up to deputise at the last minute.

Regular keeper Darryl Sloane had been held up at work.

Graham Lightbown got a hat-trick with Scott Gilchrist, Damian McKay and Paul Walker scoring the other four for Great Harwood.

Steve Newton and Tom Bartlett scored two each in reply for Clitheroe.

Harwood play Accrington Stanley at the Showground (7.30pm) tonight.