CHARD Town take on Somerset County Premier leaders Shirehampton on Saturday at Zembard Lane (3pm).

The visitors have made a blistering start, taking 16 points from six games to lead the table by seven points.

Last Saturday, Shirehampton beat league champions Chilcompton Sports 5-0 on their own ground.

Chard manager Mark Parris hopes to have three players back in Tom Stephens-Fouracre, Dan O’Connor and Ryan Mason, while player-coach Andy Holmes will have a late test on an injured knee. Harry Boddington and Steve Friend are unavailable.

Parris said: “We will have to work harder, retain possession better and cut out the errors that have occurred to date to get something.”

Ilminster Town face something of a six-pointer at home to fellow early strugglers Clutton.

Both sides are without a win from their first five league matches, with Clutton one place and one point above Ilminster at the foot of the table.

In Division 3, Combe St Nicholas host leaders Chew Magna hoping to end the visitors' 100% record.