‘BARE bones’ Portland United are going to put all bodies to the pump as they prepare to travel to Baffins Milton Rovers in the Sydenhams Wessex Premier Division tomorrow (3pm).

Portland will be missing at least seven players for the trip over to Portsmouth but Jamie Beasley returns and Ed Bastick could be back.

Assistant-manager Mark Carter said: “Unfortunately now we have got both Max Buckler and Steven Walker suspended, added to Ryan McKechnie and Sam Buckler, the latter two who still have one match to serve from their red cards against Lymington.

“We have got Lewis Whyton, Ross Doidge and Alex Halloran away this week as well, so we are down to bare bones.

“(It is) all bodies to the pump, Sam Clark who came in last week was outstanding and he is available. Richard Marshallsay started the season with us but due to his job with the Marines he has been unable to commit but he is available (tomorrow).”

In light of the recent absences, the Blues have called upon some of the reserves to cover the numbers, but Carter has been impressed with the likes of Sol and Manny Roche as well as Harry Hutchinson.

Referring to Portland’s crop of young talent, Carter said: “When they have been called upon they have done very well, acquitted themselves brilliantly.”

Discussing Baffins, Carter was impressed with the side last season, and praised their consistency.

Carter said: “They are a young side, very energetic, play good football. Last season I was impressed with them and from what I know they have improved the squad this year.

“They have been quite consistent.”