Funnell demands Wasps finish well

EAST Grinstead Town are itching to get back in action after two weeks without a game.

Due to the recent cold snap, the Wasps have not played a competitive fixture since January 28, when they defeated St Francis Rangers 3-2 away from home in the Sussex County League Division One.

Since then, Wasps have played a friendly against Ryman League Division One South side Whitehawk and had their two subsequent league fixtures away against Selsey and at home to Arundel called off due to frozen pitches.

But manager Simon Funnell has mixed feelings about the recent postponements, with frustration at the lack of action, but relief that some players still nursing injuries have been able to rest.

He said: "We haven't been able to train or play and it is quite frustrating.

"Hopefully the snow and ice will thaw this week and we will be able to get a game this weekend and with a bit of luck, be able to train beforehand."

Funnell admitted that the extended break had given some players the chance to recover from illness and injury, adding that he hoped to have a near full-strength team available for this weekend's home clash with 16th-placed Horsham YMCA.

"I want to win on Saturday," he said.

"We want the points and although they will be fighting for their lives and I imagine they will be hard-working, we will try to win the game."

Recent signing Sacha M'baye, formerly of Lingfield, could make his long-awaited debut in the match, provided he arrives home from Senegal in time.

Funnell said: "He has been home to see his father who hasn't been well and he said he hopes to be available. He said he will go home and get a couple of hours sleep when he gets back and hopefully he will be ready Saturday afternoon."

With just seven games remaining, Wasps currently lie in 11th place in the league - one point above Crowborough Athletic and one point behind Sidley United.

Funnell recently said he was aiming for a top 10 finish and he said a win this week would help his side towards that goal.

Kick-off at the GAC Stadium is at 3pm.

Meanwhile, the postponed Arundel fixture has been rearranged for Saturday, March 3 at 3pm.