ERNIE Howe is glad that a nine-day break from Nationwide South action will give his walking wounded players time to recuperate ahead of their challenging festive double-header with Maidenhead United.

After the recent punishing fortnight schedule of Monday/Saturday matches, which increased demands on a threadbare squad, plus the combative nature of the league programme, the Town ranks are feeling the effects.

Town were stretched to the limit on Saturday at Newport because of injuries and unavailability, but a makeshift side battled hard to secure a welcome 1-0 away victory thanks to David Ray's strike.

But the extended gap for Christmas allows players like Jason Bristow, Martin Whiddett and Sergio Torres, who have been playing with injuries, the rest they sorely need.

Town meet Maidenhead on Monday at the Camrose and Howe said he wouldn't be pushing his team too hard in training last night, in their only session of the week after Tuesday's was spent bowling.

He said: "The lads have been working very hard this season and it has finally caught up with us in terms of injuries and tiredness.

"This little break has come at the right time because we are down to the bare bones and players need rest to recover.

"Hopefully, the lads who need it will feel the benefit and will be a lot fresher for the game with Maidenhead, which is an important one.

"We want to do well so we can keep in touch with Grays at the top, as I think they will slip up in one of their matches with Thurrock. If we win, and they do slip up, we're right back in it."

Despite an unaccustomed line-up at Newport, Howe said there were positives to take from the displays of fringe players Toby Sumner, Ricky Allaway, and youngster Jamie Roach.

"Toby has had a really tough time with injuries, so I was pleased for him, and Ricky too. He defended very well in the second half and really let the opposition know he was about.

"Both have been very patient and haven't complained about not playing, but they came in and did very well."

When asked if Roach's involvement answered recent criticism about the lack of young players getting a chance, Howe said: "I don't think it's accurate or fair to say that they don't get chances at this club.

"We are always keeping updates on young players and know who is ready and when. But the time and situation dictates when they come into the side.

"I don't see the need to answer that line of criticism by sacrificing players who are performing and getting results, just for a youngster to get a chance.

"But it was pleasing to see Jamie do well and get stuck in. Of course, there is still work to be done with him, but he certainly played a part on Saturday."