GREAT Harwood boss John Hughes is hoping he can have a full side to choose from as he doesn't want any more slip-ups.

The NWCL Division Two side lost 5-3 to Nelson on Monday night but Hughes admitted there was more than just a strong Nelson team to contend with.

"It doesn't help when you have two players who ring up one or two hours before kick off and say they can't play because of work commitments," said Hughes who was disappointed he had to field an understrength side against their local rivals at the Interlink.

"John Eastham hadn't played for us in our win over Eccleshall on Saturday but had to come in on Monday and didn't perform well.

"Neil Kennedy hasn't played for months and he came in at the last minute and played at the back while defender Matt Houldsworth, who is trying to get fit, had to play on the wing.

"It was disappointing as it was a game we needed to win to keep up with top sides. We didn't and we can't afford any more slip ups if we want to finish in the top few.

"There are no excuses though and I take nothing away from Nelson. They were up for the game more than us and that is what is frustrating."

Harwood's scorers were Eastham and Vasillis Theophanous, who slotted home two penalties in the 74th and 78th minute. On Saturday, Ryan Fisher and Theophanous were on target in their 2-1 win over Eccleshall.

The Robins face Ashton at the Interlink tomorrow (Sat, Ko3pm) and haven't got a midweek game arranged as yet.

"We have Matty Wood missing tomorrow and Vasillis so we have more problems but we have just got to get on with it. And we have got to show a much better attitude than we did against Nelson," said Hughes.

"We have got to start winning again as we could only afford one or two slips ups and they have gone now. We have Dennis Hill back which is a big boost as he has been playing well."