Sargeant leading keeper battle (From Worcester News)

Sargeant leading keeper battle

7:30am Tuesday 21st February 2012

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MATT Sargeant could retain the Worcester City goalkeeper’s jersey even when James Dormand returns to full fitness.

City have not lost in the three games the former Tipton Town custodian has started since Dormand pulled a calf muscle in the 1-0 defeat to Colwyn Bay last month.

Sargeant has kept two clean sheets, including in the 0-0 draw at Solihull Moors last Saturday which saw Worcester stay ninth in Blue Square Bet North.

Dormand is on the road to recovery but manager Carl Heeley will not take any chances with a player who has made 26 appearances this term.

He also believes Sargeant has earned the right to retain his place for Saturday’s visit of Blyth Spartans.

“We like to think we’re fair with the boys and pick them on merit,” Heeley said. “Jimmy’s got competition, we always knew Matt was a good keeper and while he’s doing well he’ll keep the shirt.

“Jimmy is still feeling his calf a little but there’s no need to rush him, Matt has been very patient and he’s conceded one goal in three games.

“He looked very assured at Solihull and what he had to do he did incredibly well.

“I thought his handling was impeccable. He’s long overdue a spell of games because his attitude and patience has been superb.”

Meanwhile, Stuart Whitehead could be fit for the Spartans clash after being replaced with 19 minutes left at Damson Park.

The centre-half, signed from Telford last month, has been struggling with a hamstring injury and was taken off as a precaution.

Rob Elvins replaced Whitehead for his first appearance since sustaining shoulder ligament damage in December and came through unscathed.

Heeley added: “Stuart felt the next time he opened up and sprinted it would pull so we took him off straight away.”

The City boss highlighted the potential of Phil Green after the striker made his debut at Solihull and said: “He’s short on fitness but has certainly got some wonderful ability.”

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