MIDFIELD forces Nathan Hayward and Mat Birley are doubts for Worcester City’s final home match of the season against Rocester tomorrow (7.45).

Hayward’s recurring knee complaint flared up during Saturday’s 3-0 over Highgate United, while Birley was withdrawn late on with a tight hamstring.

“Nathan has had a problem for a while but being the sort of lad he is insists on playing through the pain barrier," said manager John Snape.

"He suffered a bit on Saturday but didn’t want to come off.

“Mat had tightness after the game so we will proceed with caution with both of them.”

City realistically must win to keep alive their slim promotion hopes with second-placed Highgate United, four points clear of City with a game in hand, due to play tonight at Sporting Khalsa.

Third-placed Coleshill Town, three ahead of City with a game in hand, travel to Heanor Town on Thursday.

Defeat would mathematically end Rocester’s hopes of survival. Having earned only 18 points all season, they sit 16 from safety and 10 adrift at the bottom with six matches to play.

“Rocester have picked up the odd result lately and we must not take them lightly. I expect the lads to be fully focused on doing a thorough and professional job,” added Snape.