TWO members of last season's BAT 'brat pack' have caught the eye of Conference outfit Woking.
One of the bright, young duo is Liam Cockerill, the 18-year-old son of former Saint Glenn, who was appointed manager at Kingfield earlier this month following the departure of Geoff Chapple.
After impressing in a trial game for The Cards, Cockerill junior has been invited up to play for their reserves in the Capital League along with Southampton lad Ian Proctor, who only recently had trials with Bristol Rovers.
Having made a big impression for the Tobaccomen last season, neither Cockerill nor Proctor have featured much in the Jewson Wessex League this season since manager Andy Leader injected more experience into his side.
Cockerill, a striker/wide midfielder, has been held back by injury problems, while 18-year-old midfielder Proctor has been unavailable through work commitments.
Manager Andy Leader admitted: "It's a bit of a surprise, but it just goes to show that if you've got the right contacts and you impress in a trial game, then the world's your oyster.
"Both lads have got lots of talent and now it's a question of whether they can apply themselves at the next level.
"They're way off Conference standard at the moment, but Woking are going to see how they develop.
"As far as I'm concerned, I'm happy to let them play there, but I hope they'll both stay registered with us."
The Tobaccomen have been dealt a crushing blow ahead of tonight's Russell Cotes Cup trip to East Cowes Vics.
Skipper and central defender Lee Hodder is out for at least a month with a dislocated shoulder and may miss the rest of the season if an operation is required.
Pick of tonight's Russell Cotes ties pits unbeaten JWL title chasers Lymington & New Milton at home to ambitious Hampshire League leaders Winchester City.
Linnets' new defensive signing Lee Bradford is not eligible to play because he was not registered in time.
Bashley are likely to send a weakened side to Andover.
The Foresters have a congested midweek fixture list and manager Barry Blankley is likely to save his strong- est line-up for Chippenham Town tomorrow in the second round of the Dr Martens League Cup.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article