Allen Doubtful for Easter Games

By: Rob Sedgwick
Date: 26/03/2002

GRIMSBY Town striker Bradley Allen is rated doubtful for the two games over the Easter period having picked up a hamstring injury during training this week. Club vice captain Tony Gallimore is also struggling for fitness with a bug, although is the less likely absentee of the pair.

The potential loss of two of their senior professionals at such a critical time of the season is a big blow for Town, who probably need between 4-6 more points to secure their First Division status for another year, with just five games to go, two of which are at home.

Phil Jevons and Ben Chapman would provide replacements for Allen and Gallimore respectively should they miss out in the Birmingham game on Saturday, and the massive game with Yorkshire relegation rivals Sheffield Wednesday on Easter Monday. Although the possibility of Paul Groves managing to bring in a loan player to replace Allen before the transfer deadline cannot be ruled out.

The partnership between Bradley Allen and Michael Boulding has blossomed in recent games, with the former Tennis pro in particular benefiting from Allen's link up play and general off-the-ball movement.