PHIL Mullen is trying to sign an Australian goalkeeper in time for Saturday's Dr Martens League Western Division opener at Sutton Coldfield . . . but it isn't Damien Beattie, writes Mervyn Collins.

The Common Road manager gave the impression that Beattie was in line for a recall but the Down Under deputy Mullen is chasing is currently No 2 at Forest Green Rovers.

"I don't even know his name, I just know that he's an Australian," Mullen admitted.

The Evesham United boss has had to act quickly after Tim Clarke twisted an ankle in a fall.

The club's other registered custodian, Craig Ladek, starts a six-week ban on Monday so it is imperative that a replacement is found ahead of Tuesday's home opener with Clevedon Town

Clarke's tumble has not been Mullen's only headache. There is also a doubt over Jay Powell, who has a thigh strain, while personal problems will keep Kirk Master out of action for the immediate future.

Add to that a three-match ban for Wesley Joyce and Mark Shepherd's family wedding at the weekend, then it all adds up to a host of unwanted problems for the Robins' manager.

Mullen has drafted in a couple of new faces - signing former Motherwell man Phil Mortimer and ex-Crewe midfielder Craig Ball.

The pair are likely to feature at some stage at Coles Lane where Mullen indicated that Simon Marsh and Danny James would be his front two.

United lost 2-0 at Port Talbot last Saturday when they were overrun in the first half.

"That acted as a wake-up call to the lads and they buckled down after the break," Mullen admitted. "It's always a physical game with Sutton but at least the pitch should be in good condition and that should suit us."

Shepherd will be back to bolster Mullen's limited attacking opti-ons on Tuesday but it promises to be a difficult opening for United who need a winning start if they are to renew public interest and make an impression in what will be a tough league.

Tuesday night's match is being sponsored by the Danish Bacon Co, Welwyn Garden City and the ball by Millvale, Black Bridges, Evesham.