GOALKEEPER Craig Humphries has been released by Malvern Town after failing to show up for two games.

Humphries did not arrive at the Langland Stadium until after Saturday's match against Willenhall Town had finished and was absent for Monday's trip to Cinderford.

Malvern picked up just one point from the Southern League Division One Midlands double-header, losing 3-1 to Willenhall and drawing 2-2 in the Forest of Dean.

Paul Molloy said the 'keeper called him on Saturday to say he was stuck in traffic, forcing the manager to put striker Danny Harding-Hall between the posts at the 11th hour.

When Humphries later turned up for an evening event at Worcestershire County Cricket Club, Molloy agreed to give him one last chance. But his no-show on Monday left the boss with no alternative but to dispense with his services.

Molloy said: "He let us down on both games so he's been released. He dropped us in it big time. We can't blame Danny because he went in goal on Saturday and tried his best but a goalkeeper would have saved all three goals."

With Humphries gone, Molloy is faced with a dilemma for Saturday's trip to Rothwell Town (3pm). Dean Smith, who is registered to the club, is the number one choice with all other avenues closed.

Reserve team stopper Mark Wright, who deputised at Cinderford, is working, while youth teamer Tom Shepherd is playing for Feckenham. Paul Wyatt has had surgery on a groin problem.

Molloy said: "Rothwell are doing really well so we need a proper goalkeeper and the deadline has gone for signing them."

Defender Andy Cartwright should return after illness.