WARRINGTON Town were relieved to learn goalkeeper Alan Thompson can play in their Second Division Trophy clash with Curzon Ashton.

The first leg of the semi-final clash at Cantilever Park on Saturday is a vital chance for Town to impose themselves before the return fixture seven days later.

Thompson is due to start a 35 day ban for swearing at an official but it comes into effect on Monday rather than this week as first thought.

Manager Dave Hughes says he is fortunate to have nearly his whole squad available for the crucial match shortly before a number of bans take effect.

He adds: "We've got a lot of games coming up and it's going to be tough with players out. Alan is out for about 10 matches, which is a big disappointment and we will also have Kevin Tyrell and Joe Fenton missing soon."

Tyrell faces a two game ban while Fenton will be out for five under the disciplinary points system. Influential midfielder Andy Tague is also close to trouble.

Beating Curzon over the two leg semi-final would put Town just one step away from their first silverware in 10 years.

The trophy cabinet has been gathering dust since Town won the North West Counties Cup against Colwyn Bay in 1989 and the fans are keen for something to celebrate.

Hughes said: "The lads are confident and if they play they way they did against Fleetwood on Saturday then there's no reason why they can't win this one.

"We beat Curzon 4-1 last time we played them but they've brought in reinforcements since then so it will be a trickier proposition this time.

"They've got Dave Betts in at centre half from Ramsbottom whose a giant of a man and they've signed a couple of players on loan.

"It'll be a tough game but if we play like we can do then there's every chance we'll be in a good position for the next leg."

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