BOSS Paul Collicutt has been left with a defensive headache after Ashley Williams and Nathan Summers withdrew from Monday’s 1-0 win at Cinderford Town.

Williams, who usually operates in midfield, slotted into the backline for the derby date but lasted only seven minutes before being stretchered off with suspected knee ligament damage.

Partner Summers, who bagged the only goal of the game, then had to be replaced 17 minutes from time with a groin strain.

Summers ultimately settled a fast-paced match by heading home a bouncing Joe Tumelty corner 13 minutes in.

Cinderford had already hit the crossbar from point-blank range through Richard Greaves and chances flowed at both ends with last-ditch defending and misfortune in front of goal preventing any further score.

The result ended Cinderford’s 100 per cent start to the campaign and went some way towards numbing the pain of Evesham’s FA Cup exit at Rugby Town on Saturday.

“It was a good result, the lads put in positive performance but it leaves you asking yourself where that was on Saturday,” said Collicutt.

“We shuffled things around a bit. Ash went in at the back but had to come off early and it looks like he will be out for two or three months.

“We will wait to see what he comes back with but he was in a lot of pain and had to be carried off the pitch.

“Nathan then had to come off. We will see how he reacts over the next few days before making a decision on the weekend, I’d say he’s 50-50 at best though.

“Ash’s injury made us change things but credit to the lads, they stood firm in what was an entertaining game.

“There were chances at either end and I was pleased to come away with three points, especially after Saturday.”

Southampton-based Blackfield & Langley, promoted from the Wessex League last season, visit the Jubilee Stadium on Saturday (3pm) boasting an unbeaten record in their new surroundings.

“It means nothing if we don’t get a positive result on Saturday,” added Collicutt.

“They drew with Totton to stay unbeaten in the league and no doubt will pose a tough test with a bit of momentum behind them from last season.”