EXPERIENCED striker Lee Hughes is poised to make his home debut for Worcester City against Curzon Ashton in Vanarama National League North (3pm).

The 39-year-old marksman impressed on his first appearance for City in their battling 0-0 draw at fancied Stockport County last weekend.

Hughes has been a prolific scorer for the likes of Kidderminster Harriers, West Bromwich Albion, Oldham Athletic and Notts County.

City joint manager Carl Heeley said: "Lee's work-rate at Stockport was exceptional. His experience was invaluable and he lifted the rest of the team. To be chasing the opposition down in the 85th minute was fantastic.”

Tom Sharpe was another City player who put in a fine display as the Blue and Whites kept a clean sheet for the first time this season.

City joint manager Matt Gardiner said: "The Hednesford game was a tough start, dropping in when things were not going too well, but last week was a different proposition. We looked solid and everyone did their job with Tom at the heart of the defence."

Despite their deserved point at Stockport, City remain second-bottom in the table but halted a run of four successive defeats.

Sean Geddes will be back in City's squad after missing the draw through suspension, with Ashley Vincent also returning following his red card in the win against Lowestoft Town.

Curzon Ashton are based in the Manchester area and are plying their trade in National League North for the first time in their history.

They gained promotion from the Northern Premier League Premier Division at the end of last term after beating Ilkeston in the play-off final.

Ashton picked up their maiden National League North win – a 1-0 home success against Nuneaton Town last weekend.

Ashton have also drawn four and lost three of their opening eight league games and are three places above City with seven points.

Matthew Warburton is their top goal-scorer with four, including the winner against Nuneaton.

After residing at National Park for 20 years, Curzon moved to the £4 million Tameside Stadium at the beginning of the 2005–06 season.

Curzon have bolstered their squad with the addition of central defender Matthew Flynn.

The 26-year-old was previously at Rochdale and Macclesfield and featured for Chorley earlier this season. He has also had stints with Barrow, Halifax, Fleetwood and Southport.