SHARPSHOOTER Josh Weatherby is set to return at just the right time for title-chasing Worcester Raiders.

The free-scoring hitman bagged 10 goals in five starts and four substitute appearances earlier this season before work commitments prevented him from turning out regularly.

Raiders have since maintained an unbeaten in West Midlands (Regional) League Division One that stretches back to August, moving three points clear at the summit.

However, draws in their past two matches against Sikh Hunters and Gornal Athletic, both of which Raiders led 2-0, have put the brakes on attempts to pull away from championship rivals Darlaston Town (1874).

And with Ant Smith (suspended), Rich Smith and Luke Molloy (both unavailable) out of contention for tomorrow's trip to mid-table Wellington Amateurs (3pm), Weatherby's return having taken on a new job has been welcomed with open arms.

"We have had him back this week and that will help us out," said manager Karl Gormley.

"He has not played much lately but we put on some extra training after the Gornal result, he came along to that and looked sharp so we have no worries there.

"Work took over as it has to sometimes. With him only being able to commit every couple of weeks back then it was likely he would have been on the bench.

"He has a new job now and wanted to come back in. With a few out at the sharp end of the pitch at the minute it was perfect timing."

Gormley confirmed the club was still awaiting confirmation over what happens next regarding the incidents that saw the trip to Bustleholme abandoned in added time and Darlaston file allegations of “violence, racist and abusive comments” with the FA.

Raiders had been winning 3-1 at Bustleholme prior to a brawl involving players and staff of both teams and members of the crowd.

The result has since been taken down from the Full Time website, the place for official results, pending the relevant county FAs passing a verdict on referee Pete Durnall’s report.

Gormley indicated it would not be appropriate to comment directly on the incidents prior to officials at Worcestershire FA completing any investigations.

"We have put in all of the reports but not heard back yet so all we can do is wait to see for the time being,” said Gormley.

"It is frustrating to see the points come off from the Bustleholme game from a football point of view because at this stage of the season you want to know where you stand.

"All we can do is get on with the football, get three points as often as we can and see where that takes us.”

Second-placed Darlaston play at home to fifth-placed Team Dudley tomorrow (3pm).