CHARD Town have a tough home clash coming up tomorrow, after what has been a mixed week for manager Mark Parris.

The Robins entertain second-placed Clevedon United - who have been beaten only twice in 17 league games - in the Somerset County League Premier Division at Zembard Lane (3pm).

The week started with Ben Mear deciding not to make the mid-season move to Chard, though the manager respected his loyalty to Seaton.

Then Marky Jones decided to join Axminster - the fifth Chard Under-18 player to ply his Saturday trade elsewhere and the third to move to Axminster.

But this was offset by midfielder Matt Howell deciding to rejoin Chard from Wincanton.

Parris said: “Matt watched us against Westfield and was impressed with the work ethic; he contacted us early last week and said he wanted to return to help the club in a difficult situation.

“Matt has been a regular at Wincanton this season with 17 appearances but is prepared to put his Western League career on hold to support our club.

“His attitude is refreshing and his return is a huge positive for us.”

Howell, 23, made 84 first team appearances for Chard, netting three goals, in the Paul Down era before leaving for Wincanton - where he lives - near the end of the 2018-19 season.

Another midfielder, Tom Hargreaves, also 23, has also returned - as has Sam Spurway, with Parris again stressing the player’s attitude has been spot on, being prepared to help the club out and play anywhere for either team.

On Saturday, Jake Board should return, but Dan O’Connor is struggling with an ankle ligament problem so Ryan Parris, impressive at centre-back last Saturday, is expected to again start there.

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TOMORROW also sees Ilminster Town - who gained an impressive 0-0 draw away to leaders Shirehampton last weekend - entertain Mendip Broadwalk (2.30pm).

Visitors Broadwalk were promoted to the Premier Division last season and have progressed up to third in the table.

In Division 3, Combe St Nicholas look to bounce back from last Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Ashcott as they head to Yatton & Cleeve United Reserves.