PHIL Mullen tried to sign an Australian goalkeeper last week . . . but it wasn't Damien Beattie, writes Mervyn Collins.

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

However, when that avenue of help failed, Mullen contacted Beattie and his temporary signing was completed at East Midlands Airport last Friday afternoon.

While Beattie was making his return to Evesham, Mark Wolsey was on his way out. The midfielder, who hadn't signed forms for the new season, was busy making plans to join Sutton Coldfield.

There was even more frustration for Mullen the next day when secretary Mike Peplow received a call from his counterpart at Bromsgrove informing him, rather belatedly, that Steve Lutz had received a three-game ban after being sent off in the final game of last season.

Add to that injuries that ruled out Paul West and Jay Powell and the known absences of Mark Shepherd, Wesley Joyce and Kirk Master and it all added up to a tale of torment for the United boss.

Danny James was missing in midweek but Mullen should be at full strength at Cinderford on Monday (3pm).

"We badly need to get something out of the two games," the United boss admitted. "The disappointment of pre-season is still with us. We're not sharp enough and not fit enough and I think it will take us another couple of sessions before we are fully up and running.

"I couldn't fault the lads for their endeavour and commitment on Tuesday. The penalty decision was a sickener but the quality is there and we have two games in quick succession to get our season started."

Powell, who played against Clevedon despite not being fully fit, is a doubt for Saturday's visit of Ilkeston Town, who hit back after a 6-0 mauling against Redditch to draw 2-2 at Halesowen.

Saturday's match is being sponsored by P J Nicholls, Station Road, Pinvin and the ball by Willersey Provisions, Collin Lane, Willersey.