BURY'S "Mister Reliability" Nick Daws, is in a race against time to be fit for tomorrow's crucial clash at Tranmere Rovers.

A niggling back injury is threatening to bring an end to the tenacious midfielder's amazing run of 151 consecutive league games.

The last time Bury took to the field without the former Altrincham man was on December 9, 1995 in a Third Division clash at Barnet that resulted in a 0-0 draw.

But, uncharacteristically the reigning fans' player-of-the-year failed to finish last week's game against Norwich City and it's touch and go whether he'll recover in time to turn out at Prenton Park.

Apart from Chris Swailes, who misses the game through suspension, Daws is manager Neil Warnock's only major doubt as the Shakers go in search of that elusive first away win of the campaign.

New-signing Darren Bullock will be keen to get in longer than eleven minutes following his early red card last weekend and whatever happens regarding his appeal over the dismissal (expected to be concluded early next week) he will be available for Tuesday evening's vital home clash against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

But Warnock isn't looking any further than tomorrow's game at Birkenhead which he envisages being a tough encounter.

"Every game's a cup final for us now," he said. "When Tranmere came to Gigg Lane I thought they were one of the best side's we'd played - and that's when they were having a bad time!

"In the past few matches I've felt we were a good bet to pick up points but tomorrow they will be the favourites because their current form is good and they're scoring goals.

"We'll have to look out for the missile of a long throw from Dave Challinor and we've been working hard to counter it."

Warnock hasn't ruled out another addition to the squad in the coming weeks but gratefully reported that his phone has been quiet regarding rival clubs chasing his players.

Left back Dean Barrick has joined Ayr United on a month's loan.

Bury's home clash with Bolton has been brought forward a day to Friday, April 23, and will be shown on Sky TV, kick-off 7.45pm.

Nine-year-old Aaron Walker has been named as the Shakers mascot for tomorrow's game at Tranmere.

He was the lucky winner of the prize after taking part in the Bury FC half term soccer coaching course last week.

Fans attending the Bury game against Wolves and Crystal Palace next week can support local causes and save themselves £4 by purchasing tickets at the reduced rate of £10 as part of the Shakers Cassback scheme.

Bury Hospice are selling tickets for the Wolves clash on Tuesday night. Ring 0161-763-1893 for details.

Ramsbottom Chamber of Trade are selling them for both games, with tickets available from outlets in Ramsbottom town centre including Walmsleys Butchers, Bridge Street News, Market Place News, Wayward Tyke Fish and Chips and Steve's Fish and Chips.

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