Cambridge United: Van Heusden, Chenery, Mustoe, Duncan, Marc Joseph, Campbell, Wanless, Taylor (Walker 87'), Butler, Benjamin (Kyd 87'), Ashbee.
Booked: Butler (foul 26'), Joseph (foul 34'), Wanless (foul 58')
Sub not used: Preece.

Southend United: Margetson, Beard, Booty, Hunter, Newman, Coleman, Maher, Unger, Conlon, Roach, Houghton.
Booked: Hunter (dissent 45'), Newman (ungentlemanly conduct 47'), Beard (foul 72')
Sub not used: Harris.

Ref: Mr D. Crick (Worcester Park).

Shots On Target: Cambridge 6, Southend 4
Corners: Cambridge 4, Southend 6

On an afternoon when the leading teams dropped points here, there and everywhere, United held their collective nerve to beat Southend and move to within a point of the leaders, with a game in hand.

Match reports on-line here.

Reporter Mark Johnson's Man of the Match: "Neil Mustoe - Dynamic in midfield"

Cambridge move to within a point of leaders Cardiff, who drew at Rochdale, and still have the postponed away game at Rochdale in hand. Brentford were held 1-1 at home by bottom club Scarborough, Scunthorpe lost 2-1 at Mansfield, and neighbours Peterborough did us a favour with their 2-0 win at Plymouth.

McFarland acknowledged to the Cambridge Evening News that Russell's playmaking skills were missed against Scunthorpe, when he was injured and left the field after an hour, and last weekend at Orient when the side failed to score. Saying the decision would "go to the wire," he added, "We'll give Alex as long as we can. He was coming along well, but he suffered a bit of a setback when he felt the thigh strain again in training yesterday."

Benjamin has suffered a dip in form in recent weeks but McFarland indicated that the 20-year-old striker will get another chance tomorrow: "Trevor has had a rest over the last couple of weeks which he may have needed. The lad's trained well, and I think he's ready for the first team again.

"As well as wanting goals from him, we want him and the other attacking players to make more chances for Martin Butler who has done so much work in the last few games."

Jamie Campbell, Andy Duncan and Neil Mustoe will all be hoping to sign off with a win tomorrow before missing the match in Devon through suspension.

Tomorrow's visitors Southend have failed to fulfil their early promise, although McFarland tipped them as the best side United had played when the two sides met in September. Their 3-0 victory over resurgent Brighton last weekend was just their second in the last eight games, and in the League the Shrimpers have not won away since September. They will also be without Brentford striker Kevin Rapley, who scored four goals in three games in a loan spell. He had the chance to make the move permanent but decided to join Notts County instead.

Defender Scott Eustace, currently on monthly terms at The Abbey as he tries to earn a permanent contract, was delighted to return to League action last weekend spending most of the season in the wilderness. He left Mansfield at the end of last season after a disagreement over contract terms, and his experience comes as a warning to any players who think it will be a simple task to take advantage of the Bosman ruling and find a new club.

Over 100 games for Mansfield meant little as the powerful defender went on trial at Lincoln and spent three months with Chesterfield before joining the Us on trial in December. After some impressive performances for the reserves he came off the bench last weekend after Andy Duncan was sent off at Leyton Orient.

"Just being involved in the game again with Cambridge has been great," Eustace says in today's Cambridge Evening News. "And, although I found the pace of the match at Orient pretty fast at first, it felt good to be out there playing in front of a crowd again.

"It's not a nice way to get into the team, but there aren't any. You get in because one of your team-mates, maybe one of your friends, is banned, injured or has lost form. I train with Andy and Marc Joseph, and they are good lads like everybody here, but I'm after a place in the team and at the club. It looks like a promotion season, and that's what every player wants to be involved in."

Chairman Reg Smart has spoken about the appointment of the club's first general manager. Colin Davies was unveiled to the staff at United and the media yesterday afternoon and Smart explained to the CEN, "We didn't take full advantage commercially of our promotion seasons with John Beck. We believe Colin has the management skills to help us do that this time, as well as being able to deal with the other major development, the improvements to the Abbey Stadium. This isn't a criticism of our other staff, all of whom are doing excellent jobs in their own areas."

When he was asked if the money would have been better spent on the team, Smart responded, "It's no good bringing in extra players if the infrastructure of the club is not right."

Meanwhile Davies himself told BBC Radio Cambridgeshire that when the chairman initially called him to discuss the position he put the telephone down as he thought it was a hoax! Davies, who is married to Smart's secretary Barbara, confirmed that football affairs remain with Roy McFarland and admitted he was no football expert.

"That's not my job," he told the CEN. "I'm here to complement that side. At one time, I went into the opthalmic industry knowing very little about it and was very successful. In that kind of situation you can often see things more clearly than people who have been involved for much longer."

Cambridge United's matchday programme has finished second in the Division Three category of Programme Monthly's Programme of the Year awards. Exeter City won again, with Brighton in the third place occupied by United last year.

The judges commented that it was difficult to separate the top three and that United's publication "continues to improve".

Mark Johnson, who took over from Andrew Pincher as Assistant Secretary and Programme Editor in November, paid tribute to his predecessor's efforts. "I'm just continuing Pinch's good work," he said.

Davies takes up his role on 1st March having spent thirty-five years in various sales, business management and leadership positions in commercial business. During these years he has worked for Philips Electronics, Pye Telecommunications, Philips Business Systems, Pirbic, UK Optical, Optisave, Hoya Lens UK and most recently The Cambridge Portfolio. He has lived in Cambridge for the past fifteen years and is a keen sportsman involved in cycling to a competitive level, downhill snow skiing (a sport in which he is qualified as an instructor), golf and other sports in general.

Davies takes over the 'administrative helm' at United at possibly the start of one of the football club's most exciting periods in its development. It is a dream come true for Davies as, at 52 years old, he has been given a role where he can put his general management skills to good use in a city that he loves and in a sport that he has always had a strong passion for.

He said, "I am looking forward to this exciting new role. I hope to be able to help the club be as successful off the pitch as Roy McFarland is being, and will continue to be, on the pitch. There is a vast amount of hard work to be done but I believe that, with the help and support of a great bunch of backroom staff and a Board of Directors with vision and determination, we can build Cambridge United into an institution the city can be proud of".

Director Gary Harwood added, "We are delighted to have secured Colin's services as General Manager. Our business is facing major change over the coming years and this change will bring challenges we have never before encountered as a football club. Whilst the Directors are passionately committed to meeting these challenges, we can not spend all of our time focused on the club's affairs, The time has come for a professional General Manager to implement our plans and lead this football club into a new era. We wish Colin every success in this role".

Ends

The advantages of having a player in the squad who stayed on to take his 'A' levels became apparent to John Taylor yesterday. The office staff were unable to get international clearance for Belgian trialist Alain Landeut to play in last night's reserve game, despite trying all day.

"It was annoying, but at least we discovered we have an interpreter in the squad," the player-coach told the Cambridge Evening News. "Trying to explain to Alain why he couldn't play seemed imposible until Tom Youngs got involved. He speaks pretty good French. Alain will be training with us, and everything should be in order in time for our next Combination match."

Reviewing the 2-2 draw against Chelsea reserves, Taylor (right) said, "It was a good performance in front of another very good crowd for a reserve game. There were about 1,200 there, and that makes a heck of a difference for the players. It turns it into a real match.

"Richard (Walker) is tremendous on the ball," he added. "He just needs a bit more strength and grit in his game. The same goes really for Andrew Ducros, who we had down from Coventry. We'll be having a further look at him. He has a very good touch and plays with a lot of awareness, and we are still working to bring in midfielder Sam McMahon from Leicester. He's looked one of the best trialists we've seen this season. It depends whether we can get the contract sorted out."

Supporters are requested to arrive early for Saturday's home game against Southend United to avoid congestion at the turnstiles. The request to arrive early before the Scunthorpe game was well received but, as secretary Andrew Pincher commented, "All games between now and the end of the season are vitally important and with the steady increase in attendances at The Abbey I would like to repeat our request for supporters to continue to arrive in good time. Graham Eales will hopefully be lining up some form of pre-match entertainment or activities."

With attendances on the increase the Club also need to recruit more matchday staff. Turnstile operators, stewards, programme and Golden Gamble sellers are all required, and if you are interested or require further details please contact Andrew Pincher or Mark Johnson on 01223 566500.

Due to the excellent recent attendances for reserve games at The Abbey, the reserve game against Southampton on 17th March has been changed to a 7.00pm kick-off (originally 2pm).

In recent weeks United have entertained Premiership sides Arsenal and Chelsea with both games producing exciting draws, 3-3 and 2-2 respectively. Both games have attracted crowds in excess of 1,200 supporters and have been extremely popular with families. There has been an excellent atmosphere at The Abbey for these games and with West Ham also due to visit on April 28th there will be two more opportunities to enjoy this type of fixture.

McFarland said in today's Cambridge Evening News, "I'm talking to John Robertson at Leicester, and I'm hopeful of getting Sam, even if it isn't in time for this match. He's unlikely to stay on at Leicester at the end of this season and he's keen to come here."

Belgian defender Alain Landeut of CS Renaix was expected to play tonight and McFarland told the CEN: "He's been recommended by an agent I've worked with before, and it's just a case of having a look at him in what should be a very competitive match."

United could not get international clearance for the 22-year-old centre-back in time to play tonight, however 21-year-old Coventry City striker Andy Ducros played tonight. The 5ft 4ins tall former England youth and schoolboy international is known for his pace and eye for goal. Swindon midfielder Peter Holcroft, who played last week against QPR, arrived injured and could not play.

United line-up: Shaun Marshall, Dean Armstrong, Martin McNeil, Keith Newby, Scott Eustace, Adam Tann, Adam Wilde, Andrew Ducros, Richard Walker, Tom Youngs, David Preece.
Subs not used: Darren Cockrill, Michael Steward, Mark Gibson.

Chelsea line-up: Dmitri Kharine, Danny Slater, Neil Clement, Stephen Broad, John Terry, Jon Harley, Jay Richardson, Mark Nicholls, Sam Parkin (Stephen Hampshire), Samuele Dalla Bona (Courtney Pitt), Robert Wolleaston (Warren Cummings).

The match attracted another excellent crowd of 1,273 who saw an exciting 2-2 draw. Chelsea took the lead through Robert Wolleaston after 15 minutes but Richard Walker maintained his 100% record from the spot with a 23rd minute penalty. Adam Wilde, who had a good game, put United ahead a minute before half-time but Mark Nicholls scored Chelsea's equaliser in the 66th minute.

Will Jones' match report states: "A crowd in excess of 1,200 watched an entertaining game finish 2-2, with United left looking at many opportunities to take all three points.

The first half was controlled by a United team which included David Preece and Richard Walker in the starting line up. Shaun Marshall in the United goal made a fine save on 15 minutes to deny Rob Wolleaston after Scott Eustace had blocked his initial shot. Unfortunately it would take the player just two minutes to avenge his miss, as he coolly lobbed Marshall from 25 yards to give the Londoners the lead, greatly against the run of play.

The lead should have been even more short lived than it was, as Richard Walker beat the goalkeeper to the ball on 20 minutes but mis-controlled with the goal at his mercy and struck a shot inches wide. Moments later United were level, following good work from David Preece and Tom Youngs. Preece found Youngs unmarked inside the box with an accurate ball but Dmitri Kharine in the Chelsea goal made a fine save. The ball then broke to Walker on the edge of the box where Neil Clement proceeded to foul and give away the penalty. The young striker got to his feet and dispatched a fine penalty to level the game.

The game then lapsed into a midfield battle, and with David Preece looking the class act it was Cambridge United who began to emerge on top. Walker watched powerful header hit the underside of the bar on 40 minutes and moments later Adam Wilde blazed a volley over from 6 yards. His disappointment would not last for long however, as he coolly gave United the lead just before the interval. Fine work from Richard Walker on the right, followed by a fine shot saw the Chelsea 'keeper palm the ball into his path enabling him to simply tap in.

The second half was a much lower key affair, with Keith Newby taking centre stage for United. He and David Preece were probably the best players, along with both Tom Youngs and Richard Walker looking competent and confident on the ball. Scott Eustace at the back once again displayed marshalling abilities and would have been disappointed to see Chelsea equalise on 65 minutes. Mark Nicholls beat Shaun Marshall to the ball and tucked a low shot below him to draw Chelsea level.

That would be the last goal of the game, but from that point on it was Cambridge United who looked the most likely to secure the three points. There were two goal-line scrambles as a result of determined and committed play from Richard Walker, and Tom Youngs had a number of angled runs which looked both dangerous and likely to produce the winning goal.

Tomorrow evening Cambridge United will host Chelsea in the second of three high profile Reserve matches against Premiership opposition at the Abbey Stadium. The Avon Insurance match will kick-off at 7.00pm with turnstiles opening at 6.00pm.

Roy McFarland could have three trialists in the United line-up if ongoing talks come to fruition. Coventry City's diminutive former England youth and schoolboy international Andy Ducros will start up front, and he could be joined by an as-yet unnamed midfielder from Leicester City and a French defender.

Leicester midfielder Sam McMahon, a 23-year-old right-sided player, has already spent time training with United and has appeared for our reserves recently.

The manager told the Cambridge Evening News, "They are good quality players, and we expect Chelsea to send the kind of side to test them. The three are coming in on trial, but we are already considering taking one of them until the end of the season."

Although the Chelsea line-up has yet to be confirmed, the London Club have indicated that Dmitri Kharine, Andy Myers, Bernard Lambourde and Eddie Newton are probably starters.

Added to rumours that Alex Russell has a groin strain which will keep him on the sidelines for weeks rather than days, Saturday's bookings could stretch Roy McFarland's resources at a vital stage of the season.

"It's what we feared," McFarland told today's Cambridge Evening News. "Two suspensions coming at the same time. It puts pressure on our small squad. The players involved must learn now the hard way that their actions harm the rest of the team.

"Before joining us they were mainly playing reserve team football with Manchester United, and the emotions of a match like the one at Orient are still a bit new to them. Also if you get sent off playing for the reserves at a big club it doesn't usually affect the first team, and hardly anybody knows about it. It's very different in our circumstances.

"I was pleased with some of our play at Orient. We had the better of the first half, despite them scoring, but we've got to work hard on our game in the final third. Michael Kyd did some good work down the right, but his crossing wasn't good enough to set anything up. The only consolation was the results going for us again. We still have that five points gap between us and the teams outside the top three."

McFarland was unhappy with Andy Duncan (left) for the lunging tackle that saw him sent off on the stroke of half-time, saying "It was a rash challenge so quickly after being booked, Andy let the side down. He's apologised, but that doesn't count for anything."

Player-coach John Taylor added, "The sending off was decisive. I thought we were on top coming up to half time, despite being a goal behind, and could have gone on to get something out of the game."

The United boss said he was pleased to learn that tomorrow night's schedule trip to Rochdale was postponed due to the Lancashire club's involvement in the AWS: "I'm not too unhappy about that. I thought we looked a bit weary on Saturday after that long Auto Windsceen's match at Walsall in midweek. At the moment I think it's best for us to have a free week to rest, train and build up for Southend on Saturday."

A rumour heard from several sources today suggests that chairman Reg Smart has called all Cambridge United staff and directors to a meeting on Thursday, although apparently none of them know what the meeting is about.

Cambridge United: Van Heusden, Chenery, Mustoe, Duncan, Marc Joseph, Campbell, Wanless, Taylor (Eustace 46'), Butler, Kyd (Benjamin 62'), Ashbee (Walker 85').
Booked: Mustoe (foul 38'), Duncan (fouls 44' and 45'), Butler (foul 85')
Sent off: Duncan 45'

Leyton Orient: Barrett, Walshaerts, Clark, Smith, Hicks, Roger Joseph, Ling, Ampadu, Richards, Griffiths (Simba 65'), Morrison.
Booked: Clark (dissent 43'), Ampadu (foul 81')
Subs not used: Maskell, Matt Joseph.

Ref: Mr C.R. Wilkes (Gloucester).

Shots On Target: Cambridge 4, Leyton Orient 4
Corners: Cambridge 7, Leyton Orient 1

In a game that hinged on the uncharacteristic sending-off of Andy Duncan, United's two month unbeaten run in the league came to an end today as Leyton Orient gave Tommy Taylor his first win against his old club.

Match reports on-line here.

"All the balls are in the air," McFarland told the Cambridge Evening News. "I've added Tom Youngs to Martin Butler, Richard Walker, Trevor Benjamin, John Taylor and Michael Kyd. I don't particularly want Orient to have any advance knowledge of our line-up, so it won't be named until we get down there. There is a lot of competition for places, and we have to be more effective than we were at times at Walsall."

20-year-old Benjamin was replaced by John Taylor at half-time on Tuesday night at Walsall, an inspired change as it turned out as Taylor made a big difference and scored the equalising goal eleven minutes later. The big striker also played 90 minutes for the reserves against QPR on Wednesday and his place must be under threat from Michael Kyd (right), who looked impressive after settling on Tuesday, or Aston Villa striker Richard Walker who netted for the reserves.

McFarland also revealed that he has had a meeting with Benjamin and his parents but it was inconclusive, and the manager remains convinced that the striker's downturn in form coincides with him signing up with an agent.

McFarland must also choose between midfielders Ian Ashbee and Alex Russell for what is sure to be a passionate encounter. Russell is recovering from a thigh injury but Ashbee played well at Walsall and may well keep his place.

McFarland said, "It should be quite a match. It's very much a derby these days, and there is a bit of history between the clubs. Orient are desperate to get into the play-off places, and we are after that top spot from Cardiff. I want to repeat what I said yesterday, the fans could be crucial, we want that great backing we had down there last time."

Orient look set to include goalkeeper Scott Barrett, forward Tony Richards and defender Matt Joseph against their former club tomorrow, although Matthew 'Billy' Beall has an ankle injury and is very unlikely to play. Barrett signed for the Os last month and controversially stated that United's league position and cup runs were down to 'luck', so he can expect a 'warm' greeting from a travelling support that is estimated to exceed 2,000.

O's striker Carl Griffiths has returned from a successful loan spell at Wrexham and may feature tomorrow, along with Steve Watts who was found for the club by the Sun newspaper's 'Search for a striker'.

With just 2,200 places reserved for United supporters, the advice is to enter the ground early.

Cardiff City's draw with Halifax tonight means that a win tomorrow would see United go top on goals scored and still have a game in hand on Cardiff.

Chairman Reg Smart says the need for player sales could recede if attendances regularly reach - or preferably exceed - last week's 5,596. That sort of crowd is needed to meet the current losses of up to £10,000 a week and could even supply Roy McFarland with funds to strengthen his side.

Smart told the Cambridge Evening News: "We just about broke even on Saturday, and we are hoping for gates at least as good as that for quite a few of the remaining games. But we have incurred accumulating losses in the first half of the season, and we've had to spend a lot of money on the stadium.

"New stairways for the grandstand and barriers in other areas have cost more than £100,000, although we are expecting some grant money for that. The work was essential, with the hope of second division football next season, because the ground capacity might have been cut to around 6,000.

"What these gates mean though, is that we are not under pressure to sell players as we try to win promotion. And we hope to be in a position to be able to strengthen for Division Two -- if we make it."

Assistant secretary Mark Johnson has warned that Main Stand tickets are selling fast for the three all-ticket games against Cardiff, Peterborough and Brentford.

"It's already very difficult to find two and three seats together, and people shouldn't leave it much longer if they want particular seats," he said.

The Club Shop today took delivery of a "big" delivery of away shirts, so they now have home and away shirts in stock in all sizes.

With crowds up at The Abbey Stadium, and some tremendous support following The Us both home and away, a large number of United fans are expected to make the short journey down the M11 to Leyton Orient on Saturday. Supporters who are planning to travel are therefore advised to get there early, as there is a limited allocation for visiting supporters,

Leyton Orient have advised that there will be 1,300 terrace places, priced at £10 for adults and £6 concessions (OAPs, children and students). There will also be 900 seats priced at £12 and £8 (concessions). Students wishing to take advantage of the concessions should take some form of ID with them, such as a Student Union card for example.

United's reserves are in action on Wednesday night (February 24th) with Chelsea the visitors. After an excellent crowd of over 1,500 for the recent match against Arsenal, with a great family atmosphere and a thrilling match, United are encouraging supporters to come along to the match as they are hoping for an appearance from a number of Chelsea's star names.

Kick-off at The Abbey Stadium will be at 7.00pm, with gates opening at 6.00pm. Admission prices for this fixture are £3 for adults, £1 concessions, with accompanied children and season ticket holders admitted free of charge.

Finally, Cambridge United would like to remind supporters than there is only just over a week to go of the special ticket package offer for the three all-ticket games against Cardiff, Peterborough and Brentford. Supporters purchasing a ticket for all three games will be able to take advantage of reduced prices as follows:
Main Stand - Adults £30 instead of £36; concessions £15 instead of £18
Family Stand and Terrace - Adults £20 instead of £24, concessions £12 instead of £15.

Graydon commented, "I'm not saying this just because we needed penalties to beat a good third division side. I'll be very surprised if Cambridge don't go up this season, and I can't see any reason why they shouldn't do well in the second.

"We haven't come up against a tougher team to beat, and, after all, we are third in the table, so that should be an encouragement to them. Roy McFarland has put together a strong side who can play football, and they can do it away from home, which is important. A lot of teams would have folded after going behind in the first minute, but we couldn't get another goal in two hours against them."

Graydon, who warned before the game that he expected "a rough tough match" from a side who "bombard the box with high balls" was generous and more accurate afterwards. "Cambridge weren't fazed, that's what impressed me," he said. "They just got on with the job, and that takes a lot of character. They are probably as good as we've met this season."

Roy McFarland was pleased to see his side yet again matching higher division opponents, in a season that has seen Cambridge unbeaten in normal and extra-time against Watford, Sheffield Wednesday, Nottingham Forest and Northampton.

"We can take a lot out of this," he told the Cambridge Evening News. "Again over 90 minutes plus extra time we've been better or as good as those sides. We won't be disheartened at all by the result.

"Walsall were never on top of us. In fact, they looked more dangerous on the break. Fortunately, we've come out of it without any injuries, and it was good to see Michael Kyd looking like his old self again. I was delighted by his contribution."

In the opinion of United skipper Paul Wanless (left), the performance in the Shield Southern semi-final "showed how far we have come as a team." But he added: "We've done nothing yet. That's what we've got to tell the boys. If we don't get promotion now it'll be no good looking back and saying we were up there for a while, and we had a few good cup games.

"This should give us heart though. We've matched a top second division team, and I don't think we'll be feeling tired when we take on Leyton Orient on Saturday."

Meanwhile the Saddlers can look forward to meeting Millwall over two legs in the Southern final, after the London side scored a "Golden Goal" in extra time to beat Gillingham.

United reserves played QPR Reserves at the Abbey this afternoon and lost 2-1 despite a goal from Richard Walker. Trevor Benjamin, who was hauled off at half-time last night after a disappointing game, played the 90 minutes in front of QPR boss Gerry Francis.

In his report for Moosenet, Will Jones wrote: "Leon Jeanne put Rangers ahead on 7 mins when he capitalised on poor defending from Martin McNeil, but Richard Walker capped a fine first half performance by levelling on 33 mins. Jamie Scales was playing, and had, for want of a better word, a real nightmare.

"Jeanne finished the scoring on 65 minutes when he rounded Marshall and scored, but United had the better of the second half chances. Scott Eustace had two headers just over the bar, and Tom Youngs (during his most effective game I have seen him play) had a shot very well saved by Bankole in the Rangers goal. Trevor Benjamin had a goal ruled out for offside, and Tom Youngs failed to control on the six yard box with the ball at his feet."

United included trialist Peter Holcroft in midfield, a 23-year-old former Everton trainee who is currently transfer-listed by Swindon Town. He is a skillful midfielder who had a successful loan spell at Exeter City last season, and he had a fairly good game yesterday.

Cambridge United: Van Heusden, Chenery, Mustoe, Duncan, Joseph, Campbell, Wanless, Kyd (Walker 81'), Butler, Benjamin (Taylor 45'), Ashbee.
Sub not used: Eustace.
Booked: Campbell (obstruction 74')

Walsall: Walker, Marsh, Pointon (Evans 90'), Keates, Viveash, Roper, Wrack, Watson, Rammell, Larusson (Thomas 112'), Mavrak (Brissett 108').

Ref: Mr G Cain (Bootle).

Shots On Target: Cambridge 3, Walsall 5
Corners: Cambridge 5, Walsall 5

Roy McFarland made two changes to the starting line-up tonight, handing speedy forward Michael Kyd only his eighth start of the season in place of John Taylor while Ian Ashbee replaced the injured Alex Russell. Trevor Benjamin retained his place in the side after passing a fitness test.

Match reports on-line here.

Mark Johnson's Man of the Match: "Neil Mustoe, Paul Wanless, Ian Ashbee - anyone in midfield, they dragged us back into the game after we went behind."

The early team news is that veteran striker John Taylor will be rested for tonight's Auto Windscreens Southern semi-final at Walsall. Michael Kyd and Richard Walker are vying for the chance to replace him, and if Trevor Benjamin fails a fitness test then both young strikers could start the game. Alex Russell is almost certain to mis out with a thigh injury and Ian Ashbee would be his natural replacement in midfield.

In the Cambridge Evening News Roy McFarland says, "I'll be starting one of the young strikers to give John Taylor a bit of a break, although John will probably be on the subs' bench. And we'll have to see how Trevor reacted after training yesterday. He had a dead leg against Scunthorpe. Alex Russell's thigh strain has improved, but I have to be very aware of the important League match coming up at Leyton Orient on Saturday.

"Not that this is a second-best match for us. A Wembley final isn't far away at this stage. Walsall are having an excellent season. They are a good footballing side. But we've got nothing to lose, and there's no real pressure on us, just like in the Worthington Cup games. And as we are going for promotion it will give us a look at what it takes to do well in the second division."

United have two ex-Walsall players in the squad. David Preece, who started his career with the Saddlers, could be on the bench for United and Martin Butler, who joined Walsall from school, has set his hopes high for his first return to the Bescot Stadium: "3-1 to us," he told the CEN. "With me getting a hat-trick!"

Walsall manager Ray Graydon says he has prepared his team for a stern test as they bid to reach the Southern Area final for the second consecutive season.

"This will be a rough tough match and I am not expecting a game for the purists," Graydon told the Midlands Express & Star. "Cambridge are a big strong side who bombard the box with high balls. They play with three strikers, who can all score goals, and they pose a real threat from set plays.

He was named in the squad for game at Scarborough last week but dropped out with an ear infection, and turned down the chance to appear again for Cambridge City on Saturday - apparently on his agent's advice.

McCammon's agent Mark Steele told the Cambridge Evening News, "Mark was disillusioned at not being offered a contract by Cambridge United, despite being there two years. He is due to have a trial with Premiership Charlton this week, and there are one or two other clubs interested."

McCammon had failed to break into the first team since being rescued from the scrapheap after QPR released him two years ago, and although he is "very disappointed" by the way McCammon left the club, according to the CEN Roy McFarland does not think he will be a great loss.

"Mark McCammon was a non-contract player because that was the best way for him to get matches to gain experience," he said. "But I had an agreement with him that he would be kept on by us until the end of this season. He had that reassurance. He has been with us for around two years, yet didn't have the decency to come and speak to me before leaving, neither did this agent. We found out by fax.

"Quite honestly we don't want to be associated with people who operate in this way. As far as I'm concerned Mark McCammon is history."

Cambridge City had expected McCammon, who played occasional games for City this season and last, to be in their side at top-of-the-table Nuneaton on Saturday. Manager Chris Tovey explained, "Mark said he wanted to play for us, then he said he couldn't because his agent had told him he shouldn't risk breaking a leg before the trial he has coming up this week."

Meanwhile the weekend report linking Trevor Benjamin with Southampton got a further - and inaccurate - airing today. On Saints' Teamtalk site today the story was that their "so far futile attempts to land a new striker received a further blow over the weekend" when "Cambridge striker Trevor Benjamin ... was carried off yesterday against Scunthorpe with a suspected broken leg. Cambridge had been resigned to losing him, with Wimbledon also interested, but the injury looks to have put the dampeners on any move."

However after Saturday's game the big 20-year-old reported that he had just suffered a dead leg and that he would be fine in a day or so.

Meanwhile Sport First reports that Cambridge United "want to begin merger talks with non-league neighbours Cambridge City." The article continues:

"United chairman Reg Smart, who has been associated with the club for more than 40 years, believes the two clubs could work better as one. 'It would be a step forward for Cambridge as a city, and for the two clubs involved. We don't want to walk into Cambridge City and take it over, but there are a lot of commercial possibilities on offer if the two clubs get together."

Local Teletext also carries the City 'merger' story, saying:

"SMART UNVEILS CAMBRIDGE MERGER SCHEME

Cambridge United chairman Reg Smart wants the promotion hopefuls to merge with Dr Martens League Cambridge City. He thinks the commercial possibilities of a merger between the two clubs could be beneficial for both parties.

Smart said: 'We don't want to take them over. We want to open discussions and get some views and opinions. It'd be a step forward for Cambridge as a city'."

Cambridge United: Van Heusden, Chenery, Mustoe, Duncan, Joseph, Campbell, Wanless, Taylor, Butler, Benjamin (Walker 42'), Russell (Ashbee 60').
Sub not used: Kyd.
Booked: Ashbee (foul 66')

Scunthorpe United: Evans, Fickling, Dawson, Witter, Harsley, Hope, Walker, Forrester, Eyre, Stamp, Housham.
Subs: Bull, Marshall, Atkinson.
Booked: Eyre (foul 59'), Witter (foul 70', dissent 90')
Sent off: Witter 90'

Ref: Mr W. M. Jordan (Tring).

Shots On Target: Cambridge 5, Scunthorpe 3
Corners: Cambridge 8, Scunthorpe 4

The stage was set for a rip-roaring, high-scoring, top of the table clash this afternoon in front of the biggest home league crowd of the season, but defences were on top as five of the division's leading scorers were kept at bay. Instead the fans saw a game higher on workrate and passion than silky passing and goalscoring chances, as United's run of home wins came to an end.

United made just one change with the unlucky Ian Ashbee standing down for Alex Russell who returned from suspension. Injury-hit Scunthorpe gave a debut to new signing 33-year-old defender Tony Witter. United attacked the North Terrace in the first half, and the game kicked off in sunny, spring-like conditions on an immaculate pitch.

The first half was a tense affair with both teams closing down fast, and United's chances were limited due to some excellent, and at times inspired, defending. In the 8th minute Alex Russell put a ball through for Martin Butler to chase, but goalkeeper Tom Evans was out quickly to hoof the ball into the stand. Then in the 16th minute Butler brilliantly robbed Justin Walker in midfield and sent Neil Mustoe away down the right, but the little midfielder was unable to get the cross in. After 19 minutes Darren Stamp was about to break clear but Marc Joseph got a vital boot in, and three minutes later Scunthorpe had a great chance to take the lead after Paul Harsley broke clear. He beat the offside trap but his shot was saved at point-blank range by Arjan Van Heusden, and Jamie Forrester scooped the rebound over the bar from eight yards.

In the 26th minute John Taylor jinked inside the defender and fired in a shot that spun away off Evans, and the goalkeeper reacted quickly to collect the spinning ball. On the half-hour Brian Laws could be seen having words with referee Bill Jordan on the touchline and the Iron manager seemed to be offering the referee his glasses! The final real chance of the half came in the 35th minute when Paul Wanless met an Alex Russell corner at the near post, but he had to turn too much and directed a tame effort straight at the 'keeper.

Roy McFarland was forced into a change in the 42nd minute when Richard Walker replaced Trevor Benjamin. Early reports suggest that the striker pulled something in a challenge with the Scunthorpe keeper and failed to run it off. (Half-time 0-0)

The second half was just as tense and close as the first, with the Us creating some nice build-up play but failing to create chances up front. Notable chances came in the 55th minute when Ben Chenery crossed for John Taylor but he failed to connect with the ball and it bounced through to the 'keeper, and a minute later Alex Russell scuffed a 20 yard free kick wide. That was to be just about Russell's final contribution as on the hour he was replaced by Ian Ashbee, although there was no clue at the time as to whether Russell had suffered a knock or not.

Scunthorpe countered with a chance in the 63rd minute when Justin Walker's free kick was cleared as far as Chris Hope on the edge of the box, but Hope's volley was tame and straight at Van Heusden. A minute later Mustoe found Butler wide on the right, Butler's cross was met with a diving header by John Taylor but Evans parried the ball at full-stretch, and although Mustoe followed up his shot was blocked by Ashley Fickling. Two minutes later it was Scunthorpe at the other end when a slip by Andy Duncan let in Forrester one-on-one with Van Heusden, but the Dutchman stood up well and blocked the shot.

United exerted a period of pressure with about twenty minutes left, forcing four corners in four minutes, then Richard Walker was pulled down outside the area. Jamie Campbell took the 75th minute freekick and Walker slid in at the far post but put the chance just wide. Two minutes later Dawson's deep freekick found Hope at the far post but the defender headed wide. United had two chances in quick succession after 84 minutes - first Joseph's long throw went through everyone in the crowded box and landed at the feet of Martin Butler, much to the striker's surprise, and the ball skidded off his boot straight at Evans. Then Mustoe burst through but his shot was held by the 'keeper as it threatened to flash across the goalmouth.

United's final chance, and the best pass of the game, came in the 86th minute when John Taylor's pinpoint pass set up Walker, but the on-loan striker's first time shot was straight at the 'keeper. The final incident of the game came in the 92nd minute when Tony Witter, who had made an impressive debut for Scunthorpe, collected his second booking for arguing heatedly with Mr Jordan after United were awarded a freekick.

Reporter Mark Johnson's thoughts were that this was an exciting game for the neutral, but it was just too darn nerve-wracking for the committed fans! Mark's Man of the match was Neil Mustoe - "a non-stop dynamo in midfield"

A high-scoring game is in prospect with five of the division's top scorers on the pitch. United strikers Martin Butler, Trevor Benjamin and John Taylor are all in double figures for the season, while Jamie Forrester, the division's leading scorer, and John Eyres will line-up for Scunthorpe.

The Us go into this vital game on the crest of a wave, undefeated this year and unbeaten at the Abbey for the last nine games, and another win tomorrow could see United go joint top if Cardiff lose. A win would also open a gap of eight points back to the chasing pack. Until last weekend's fixtures only two points separated United and Scunthorpe, but our win at Scarborough and the Iron's defeat at Torquay opened the gap to five points.

Scunthorpe boss Brian Laws has added a new face to his squad in time for tomorrow's game. Defender Tony Witter (33) has joined from Welling on a non-contract basis and could make his debut at the Abbey if Richard Logan has not recovered from injury.

He said: "I need to strengthen all areas because we must be ready in case we get an offer we can't turn down."

Also at the back of his mind must be the likelihood of having to manage without one or more key players through suspension as the season reaches its climax. The scrapping of last season's system, whereby one yellow card was erased from a player's record once he had gone five games without a caution, does not seem to favour a side like ours. United have one of the best disciplinary records in the league but that means that our players are likely to incur their first and probably only suspension of the season in the latter part of the season.

It is possibly with that in mind that McFarland has signed defender Scott Eustace on a monthly contract and gave former Carlisle defender Stephane Pounewatchy an outing for the reserves yesterday. However he revealed in today's Cambridge Evening News that Pounewatchy is also interesting second division Colchester: "Stephane did well and we'd like to have a longer look at him. But his former manager at Carlisle has recommended him to Colchester, so we are waiting to see what happens with that.

"What we lack is a bit of strength in depth and he could well be the kind of player we need in the squad at this stage."

Club secretary Andrew Pincher has issued a plea for supporters to arrive early for Saturday's vital game with Scunthorpe. A crowd of more than 4,500 is expected and the club is keen to avoid congestion at the turnstiles, quoting the example of the Carlisle game when there were less than 3,000 people in the ground at 2.50pm and by kick-off there were over 4,000.

Manager Roy McFarland commented last week, "We had over 1,500 here for a Reserve match against Arsenal last week, and I would love to see a full house against Scunthorpe."

With this in mind, Pincher said, "While we appreciate that some last minute arrivals are inevitable, where possible, we are requesting that supporters leave home earlier than usual to allow sufficient time to enter the ground."

In the nine matches since Christmas, Cambridge United have scored five times in the opening ten minutes, another reason for ensuring supporters are in the ground in good time! Main Stand tickets can be purchased in advance of home games from the ticket office or by credit card over the phone. The ticket office is open from 9.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday and between 9.00am and 12 noon on home match Saturdays.

The Special Ticket Package of reduced prices for supporters buying tickets to the Cardiff, Peterborough and Brentford games are selling extremely well at the moment. Supporters are reminded that they have until February 27th to take advantage of these reduced rates, after which time ticket prices will revert to their usual level. These three crucial matches at the Abbey Stadium have been designated 'all ticket', no tickets will be available on the day of the game.

Package prices for the three games are as follows:
Main Stand Adults £30 (Concessions £15)
Family Stand & Terrace Adults £20 (Concessions £12)

Of course Season Ticket holders do not need to purchase ticKets for these matches.

The reserve team goalscorers in yesterday's 5-4 win at Charlton were Mark McCammon (2), Michael Kyd (2) and Keith Newby. It is particularly pleasing to see Michael Kyd (pictured, right) back in form - with five goals in his last three reserve outings - after another injury-hit season.

The young Us were 2-1 down at half time against a side full of players with Premiership experience, but recovered to hit four goals in 15 minutes after the break.

"Charlton got on top during the first half," said McFarland, "but after the interval Michael and Mark ran them ragged. They got two goals each, and there was one from Keith Newby. Charlton then got two late goals and we had to hang on a bit, but it was a very encouraging performance."

Starting line-up: Shaun Marshall, Martin McNeil, Jamie Scales, Stephane Pounewatchy, Scott Eustace, Darren Cockrill, Keith Newby, Dean Armstrong, Mark McCammon, Michael Kyd, Adam Wilde.

Stephane Pounewatchy is the big 31-year-old French defender who played just over 100 games for Carlisle before he was released at the end of last season, and he is on trial with United. There was no sign of Mark Graham though, the QPR winger who did so well against Arsenal reserves last week.

Saturday's visitors Scunthorpe hope to have two of their four injured players back for the vital Division Three game. Defender Richard Logan and striker John Gayle were two of the players who missed last Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Torquay, a result which ended their six-match winning run.

Iron boss Brian Laws said: "It's the old problem of small squads in this division. I notice Cambridge haven't had a run of injuries like this, and that's helped them break away a bit. I'm hoping to have at least two men back for Saturday's game, which is a very big one indeed. We haven't lost at Cambridge in our last two trips, and it's vital that we stop their winning run at the Abbey Stadium."

However Laws, and Scott Barrett with his claims that we have been "lucky" have both apparently overlooked the loss of Marc Joseph and Arjan Van Heusden for several weeks earlier this season. It was fortunate that their teenage replacements came into the side and did very good jobs in some key games, including the big game at Nottingham Forest in the Worthington Cup.

Meanwhile Roy McFarland has a selection problem of a different kind, as he must decide which of his four senior midfielders will miss out on Saturday. Alex Russell missed out at Scarborough through suspension and his replacement Ian Ashbee scored twice.

The manager says in the Cambridge Evening News, "Alex Russell did a bit of scouting for us when he was suspended last Saturday. He was delighted when he saw we'd won 5-1 at Scarborough, but his replacement, Ian Ashbee, scoring two goals probably made him think a bit."

Skipper Paul Wanless is a slight doubt with a groin strain but, as McFarland said, "It takes a lot to keep him out of a game."

McFarland has made it clear that he does not believe that promotion from Division Three is guaranteed. In a quote on the Nationwide web site he says, "It's not in the bag at all. We've done a lot of the donkey work but if we start thinking we're up, we'll fall on our backsides."

On Moosenet yesterday there was an interesting piece of gossip potentially concerning Trevor Benjamin. Apparently a well-placed QPR source has revealed that the board of the London club have sanctioned a bid for a Cambridge United striker. Benjamin, who turned 20 on Monday, has been consistently linked with QPR this season and now that they have sold Mike Sheron they are thought to have the funds to make a move in the transfer market.

Cambridge City chairman Denis Rolph has responded to the call from his United counterpart Reg Smart to consider a link between the two clubs. He wants Smart to get in contact with him directly, commenting, "The only people he's talked to are Stuart Hamilton (secretary) and Kevin Satchell (director) when they went to United's game against Carlisle, and Stuart said Reg wanted to talk to me.

"But he hasn't come to me and I wish he would. He can ring me or make an appointment - to meet the whole board if he wants. I am not shutting doors. The only thing I am against is the complete amalgamation of the clubs."

Chairman Reg Smart has chosen to 'go public' on his talks with Cambridge City about an alliance between the two clubs. He told today's Cambridge Evening News that he has spoken to "several people connected with City," including chairman Denis Rolph.

He revealed, "They have not come back to me, which surprises and disappoints me. So I've decided to go public to get a debate going. I put ideas to City which I felt would be of great benefit to both clubs. I am not talking about City being taken over by United and losing their identity and neither would it mean City selling up at Milton Road and moving to the Abbey Stadium.

"There are ways in which we could work closely together to cut costs, and both have the benefit of greater resources and facilities. We are aiming to get United back to the first division, but I can't see City making much more progress on their own. They are not going to get into the Conference on gates of around 300.

"This is a chance for them to form a link which could give them the boost they need. It's not the first time I've tried to persuade them to have serious talks with us. But if they rule it out again we will look elsewhere in this area for an arrangement with a smaller club -- there are one or two possibilities."

The type of partnership under discussion could include a nursery-type arrangement, where the club's retain their separate identities but United's young players get experience with City in the Dr Marten's League, and United get an early look at any good players produced by City. Mark McCammon is the most recent of a string of United players that have gained experience with City, while Roy McFarland enquired about City striker Neil Harris but could not meet City's asking price. Harris eventually moved on to Millwall.

However some supporters of both clubs, and in particular the City fans, are likely to be unhappy at such suggestions. The clubs were fierce local rivals during the 1950s and '60s, both winning the Southern League, and at one stage City were thought to be the more likely club to achieve Football League status. But after United were elected to the League in 1970 City fell into a decline and nowadays attract low gates. The Milton Road club have undergone big changes on the managerial and playing staff this season and Graham Daniels recently resigned from managing City, accusing the directors of lacking the ambition to become a top non-League club again.

Colin Faiers, who prepares the club's statistics, has pointed out that this could be only the fourth season in the Club's league history that three goalscorers have reached double figures. In 1976/77 Alan Biley, Tim Finney and Jim Hall reached double figures, in 1989/90 it was Dion Dublin, John Taylor and Michael Cheetham, and the following season it was Dublin, Taylor and Steve Claridge. However Mark Slater points out that 1997-98 was another such season as Martin Butler, Michael Kyd and John Taylor all reached double figures.

"The fans have really been getting behind the club lately as we saw by the 1,500 attendance for last week's reserve match, and we want them packing them in on Saturday."

Skipper Paul Wanless is quoted on the Nationwide site saying, "There's never an easy game in this division, but we're delighted with this performance."

But Marc Joseph, who was booked late in the game for an innocuous-looking challenge, found it was a costly caution as he will be fined. McFarland told the CEN: "It was stupid, messing around with the ball when they were awarded a free kick.

"It put Marc one booking away from a suspension and we can't afford those with a small squad, especially if one or two come together. He'll be fined for it under our club code. Fortunately, we don't get many of those kind of yellow cards, but one is too many."

McFarland is understandably concerned that he could be without key players as the season reaches its climax. This season's League system of missing a game after five bookings means that Jamie Campbell is also one away from a ban, while Joseph's defensive partner Andy Duncan has been booked three times.

The manager also revealed that he was disappointed with a patchy first half performance and had words with Trevor Benjamin at half-time: "I had to have a go at Trevor at the break. I was close to bringing him off. He was very disappointing. He wasn't lively or committed enough and their full-back was giving us problems on that side.

"Trevor wasn't switched on, so I decided to give him 10 minutes in the second half, but fortunately he was able to pick it up. Once we got on top, though, we dominated and with a bit more luck we could have doubled our score."

The report states: "The city club needs to secure finances as it looks to re-develop its stadium. In letters to the Department of Trade & Industry, the Culture Department and Football League, Mr. Lansley urged help for an important focus of the community. The club is chasing promotion to Division Two and need planning permission to re-develop the Abbey Stadium to introduce new seating & upgrade facilities."

Mr Lansley is the MP for Cambs South.

Cambridge United: Van Heusden, Chenery, Mustoe, Duncan, Joseph, Campbell, Wanless (Kyd 85'), Taylor (Walker 68'), Butler, Benjamin, Ashbee.
Sub not used: Preece.
Booked: Joseph (foul 86')

Scarborough: Goodlad, Kay, Jackson, Lydiate, Hoyland, McNaughton (Russell 61'), Bullimore, Brodie, Tate, Greenacre (Todd 61'), Roberts.
Sub not used: Mountfield.
Booked: Bullimore (foul 45'), McNaughton (foul 58'), Tate (foul 80').

Ref: Mr B. Coddington (Sheffield).

Shots On Target: Cambridge 8, Scarborough 2
Corners: Cambridge 7, Scarborough 0

United avoided the infamous Manager of the Month 'jinx' and instead ended a three month run without an away win. This five goal blitz and a first win at the McCain Stadium opened up a gap on the chasing teams, and in the process handed Scarborough their second 5-1 defeat in a week.

There was one change to the starting line-up, with Ian Ashbee thrown back into action straight after resuming training to replace the suspended Alex Russell. Paul Wanless was included despite having missed two day's training with a bug, while Scarborough gave debuts to their two new faces Mark Goodlad and Darren Roberts.

But the big surprise before the game was the identity of the referee: Brian Coddington, the referee of the notorious FA Cup replay at Stevenage two seasons ago. After that game Cambridge United wrote to the Football League and requested that he was never put in charge of one of our games again, a request that the League said they could not guarantee to fulfil. This was the first United game he had taken charge of since then, and he was loudly asked if he knew the rules by the away support!

United got off to a bright start and after just 30 seconds McNaughton narrowly denied Martin Butler a one-on-one with keeper Goodlad. Then in the sixth minute a long throw from Marc Joseph was not cleared, Neil Mustoe played the ball back to Joseph whose excellent cross was missed by Goodlad allowing John Taylor to score with a free header from just six yards.

In the seventh minute Mustoe fed Butler who fired a rising shot over the bar. United, who have not won at Scarborough in the last six visits and only scored twice, continued to look the more likely side but after seventeen minutes Scarborough equalised. Chris Tate made the most of some slack marking and was left unmarked to meet Jason Lydiate's cross, and his close-range header went in despite being palmed onto the post by Arjan Van Heusden.

A minute later Trevor Benjamin met a Jamie Campbell freekick on the half-volley, but his shot hit the post and bounced away. United's next real chance came in the 27th minute when Paul Wanless crossed for Benjamin but his stooping, glancing header failed to find either the goal or the lurking Martin Butler. United were showing plenty of effort and passion and had control of the game, without looking like creating goalscoring chances. Mr Coddington was noticeably picky and stopped the game from flowing while Wanless seemed to be labouring in midfield, presumably suffering the effects of the bug that prevented him training on Thursday and Friday.

In the 44th minute home debutant Darren Roberts rose above the United defence forcing Marc Joseph to head the ball behind - only for Mr Coddington to give a goal-kick! Then the game changed thanks to John Taylor when the veteran striker went on a mazy run and baboozled the Scarborough defence until he was brought down inches outside the box. No-one was booked for the challenge. Normally it would have been a perfect situation for the deadball skills of Alex Russell but in his absence Martin Butler stepped up. His firmly struck freekick went straight through the wall of players, taking a deflection that fooled Goodlad and ended in the back of the net. Pleasingly it was Butler's second league goal in two games after a three month drought. (Half-time 1-2)

United started the second half as they finished the first, in the ascendancy, and in the 48th minute Butler neatly chested the ball down into the path of Taylor whose shot was tipped round the post by Goodlad at full-stretch. Jamie Campbell took the corner which was cleared as far as Ian Ashbee on the edge of the area. Bizarrely the midfielder sliced the ball into the air with one foot but had time to connect with the other and fired home his second goal of the season.

Two minutes later Butler met Mustoe's low cross with a deft flick towards the bottom corner, but it was brilliantly saved by Goodlad at full-stretch. By now Scarborough were looking edgy and faced the prospect of going bottom of the table if results stayed as they were, while Mr Coddington continued to disrupt the game with his picky decisions.

In the 54th minute United went further ahead, again thanks to Ian Ashbee on his comeback. Campbell's corner came straight to him in a central position on the edge of the area and Ash volleyed it home. A minute later Ben Chenery burst into the box and had the ball robbed of his toe at full-stretch, then a couple of minutes afterwards a scramble in our goalmouth saw Van Heusden block an initial shot which rebounded to Hoyland, but his shot from just four yards flew well over the bar. On the hour John Taylor found acres of space to fire a shot at goal, but it went for a corner which was taken by Campbell and was flicked on and over for another corner. This one was taken by Ashbee and after a big goalmouth scramble the chance fell to Mustoe but his shot was over the bar.

Richard Walker replaced Taylor after 68 minutes, then in the 74th minute Paul Wanless' 30 yard dipping volley was tipped over by Goodlad. Moments later Trevor Benjamin had a shot disallowed after good work from Ian Ashbee, and shortly after that Benjamin burst into the box before crossing to Butler, but the striker put his chance well wide from close range. In the 81st minute Van Heusden went missing and Steve Brodie put the ball in the net for Scarborough, but that was ruled out for offside.

Then in the 83rd minute United completed the goal rout when Ben Chenery's pin-point cross was met by the advancing Martin Butler with a stooping header, and he flicked the ball past the keeper who was nowhere. The tired Wanless made way for an eager Michael Kyd with five minutes left and United had one final chance in the closing moments. In the 89th minute Mustoe fed Butler who jinked inside a defender before seeing his shot well-saved, but the ball fell to Kyd whose thunderous shot well and truly rattled the post.

Many fans have been saying that sooner or later this season, United were going to give someone a real 'thumping'. Today was was a fitting occasion to produce such a result and make sure of a first ever win at the McCain Stadium, and it was ironic that the last six trips to this ground have only yielded two points and two goals. Cardiff could only draw at Plymouth, allowing the U's to close the gap to three points with a game in hand, but sorry Scarborough hit the bottom when Hull managed an unlikely win at Brentford.

Mark Johnson's man of the match: "Ian Ashbee - just a goal machine!"

However, Preece could be pressed into action regardless of whether or not Ashbee is fit, as Paul Wanless has missed training for the last two days through illness. Roy McFarland now has an anxious wait to see if his influential skipper will be fit for the trip to the McCain Stadium.

"Paul wasn't well when he reported for training yesterday so we sent him straight home," McFarland told the Cambridge Evening News. "Hopefully it isn't the same bug which Andy Duncan had recently. It took him three days to get over it.

"But David Preece is back to fitness, and Ian Ashbee has recovered from his ankle trouble, so we shouldn't be disrupted too much. I think a feature of this season is how well the squad has coped with a problem or two."

Meanwhile Scarborough, who lost manager Mick Wadsworth to Colchester last week and were on the end of a 5-1 thumping by Scunthorpe last weekend, have had their transfer embargo lifted. This week they borrowed goalkeeper Mark Goodlad from Nottingham Forest, and today they completed the free transfer signing of striker Darren Roberts from Darlington. Both are expected to face United tomorrow.

McFarland told the CEN, "Sometimes bringing in a lot of new blood can be a boost, but the players have to gel straight away. Not that we'll be over-confident. I didn't have to remind anybody Scarborough beat us at home after we led 2-0 at half time.

"They are desperate now, and that makes teams very dangerous. If we produce our best, though, we are quite capable of getting a result."

You will find the ground on the main York to Scarborough Road (A64), half a mile on the left past the B&Q DIY store.

Chairman Reg Smart has told supporters that they can keep the current side together if they maintain the current level of attendances.

In a very positive comment to the Cambridge Evening News he said, "The support lately has been tremendous, it's very encouraging for everybody connected with the club. The kind of gate receipts we got from a crowd of over 4,000 against Carlisle will help us to refuse offers for players unless, as we always say, somebody comes in with really silly money. And add that to around 1,500 coming to last night's reserve team match, and you've got a very healthy outlook at the moment."

Reserve team manager John Taylor was surprised at the crowd of 1,537 who came to see United's young reserves drew 3-3 in the Avon Insurance League against an even younger Arsenal side: "We printed 500 programmes," he said, "and I thought a crowd of 500 to 600 would be tops.

"But 1,500 created a wonderful atmosphere for a reserve match, and it showed how much the general base of support for the club has grown lately. Apart from the financial side it's good, for the youngsters' development to play in front of a good crowd."

He continued, "We had a good first half and deserved a 2-0 lead, then Arsenal hit us with three in eight minutes after the break and it rocked the lads a bit, but they got back in, and big Mark McCammon got the late equaliser for us."

Cambridge United Reserves: Shaun Marshall, Richard Barratt, Martin McNeil, Dean Armstrong, Scott Eustace, Darren Cockrill (Mark McCammon), Mark Graham, Sam McMahon, Michael Kyd, Tom Youngs, Adam Wilde.
Subs not used: Keith Newby, Adam Tann.

Arsenal Reserves: Graham Stack, Jason Crowe, Ashley Cole, Paolo Vernazza, Brian McGovern, David Livermore, Michael Black, Greg Lincoln, Omer Riza (Gray), Graham Barrett, Tommy Black.
Subs not used: Jamie Day, Alan McLeod.

United's reserves were in Avon Insurance Combination action at the Abbey tonight (7pm) when Arsenal Reserves were the visitors. The Gunners were without most of their foreign legion, two of whom - Christopher Wreh and Alberto Mendez - have joined Greek outfit AEK Athens for the rest of the season. United included trialists Richard Barratt and Sam McMahon for their second reserve outing, and also Northern Ireland 'B' international Mark Graham, a 24-year-old winger from QPR.

The U's were leading 2-0 by half-time thanks to goals from Michael Kyd (31) and Tom Youngs (41), but three goals in seven second half minutes saw the visitors take the lead. Scott Eustace had an effort ruled offside just before Arsenal scored their third. Substitute Mark McCammon snatched a point for United with five minutes remaining when he skipped past goalkeeper Stack before finishing from a tight angle, beating a defender on the line. Tom Youngs had a penalty claim turned down and a Scott Eustace header hit the bar and bounced onto the line before being cleared. Thanks to Mark Johnson for the details.

Supporters who saw the game say that Mark Graham, who set up the two first half goals, defender Scott Eustace and Michael Kyd were particularly impressive, and none were surprised to see Arsenal collect six yellow cards during the course of the game!

The award is excellent recognition for the manager, his staff and the players, and the presentation will be made tomorrow by the Football League's Jack Taylor at a Cambridge hotel.

Let's just hope that the Manager of the Month 'jinx' doesn't strike now!

Arsenal Reserves visit the Abbey Stadium tomorrow for an Avon Insurance Combination match which kicks off at 7pm. This is the first of a series of high-profile reserve games against Premiership opposition as Chelsea visit on the 23rd and West Ham on April 28th for evening games. Admission prices for all three games have been set at £3 for adults and £1 for OAPs and students. Accompanied children will be admitted free of charge, as will Season Ticket holders, who need to take their season ticket books with them.

Although the Arsenal line-up has yet to be confirmed there could be some interesting players on view, with names like Wreh, Manninger, Grimandi, Mendez, Upson and Caballero being mentioned. In recent weeks the Gunners' reserve side has attracted big crowds at Northampton Town and Peterborough United, so Cambridge United are gearing themselves up for a good attendance and the turnstiles will open at 6pm.

The club point out that, as a number of Internationals and players with Premiership experience could feature during the match, the club shop will be open before kick-off selling, amongst the usual United souvenirs, autograph books and pens.

On the message board yesterday, director Gary Harwood confirmed that a delivery of replica home shirts was received recently and the suppliers will be sending a delivery of away shirts 'soon'.

Ticket details for the Auto Windscreens Shield Southern Area semi-final at Walsall have been released. Assistant secretary Mark Johnson revealed that it will be 'pay on the night' at the Bescot Stadium and the tickets will cost £10 for adults and £6 for concessions. U's supporters will sit in the William Sharp stand.

Former U's goalkeeper Scott Barrett, who joined Leyton Orient on a free transfer last week, has used the O's Clubcall line to hit back at Cambridge United and Roy McFarland. He claims an earlier approach from Orient was blocked simply because of the strained relationship between the two clubs.

Overlooking the fact that he tried to leave Cambridge United for Leyton Orient two years ago, only to return when the O's refused to consider paying a transfer fee (sound familiar?), he accused United of being "pathetic" for blocking an earlier move for him.

The 35-year-old also puts our second place in the table down to luck: "They've had all the breaks," he said. "Everything has gone for them so far."

Explaining why he left Cambridge, Barrett said, "To be diplomatic it was a difference of opinion with the manager. He gave me a new contract a few years ago then one season through it, he decided he wanted a change. Then he tells me that he'll let me go a week before the start of this season which gives me no time to do anything.

"I had to find a way out, the problem being the side that was interested in me was Orient. There's no secret there's no love lost between the two clubs, and I was caught in the middle. Economically Cambridge were crazy because they're losing money. Even though they're at the top they still only get three-and-a-half thousand gates, yet they were paying me for doing nothing."

Barrett's words will do nothing to wipe out memories of the way he tried to follow former boss Tommy Taylor to Orient in 1997, but returned and signed a new two year deal after the O's refused to pay a fee for him. Many fans found those actions hard to forgive and shed no tears when he was told he could leave on a free transfer last July.

The goalkeeper's pronouncements also come just a few weeks before United travel to East London for what has become something of a 'derby' match since former manager Tommy Taylor walked out on the U's to join Orient.

Roy McFarland explained the Barrett situation to the Cambridge Evening News thus: "The only offer which came from Orient for Scott was a request to take him on loan. And we rejected that as we did a similar one from Peterborough because both sides are our promotion rivals. That was the only reason.

"There was no other approach, and in fact Orient manager Tommy Taylor has never had the courtesy to talk directly to me about Scott or Billy Beall. We wanted Scott to get another club as soon as possible, that's why we circulated his name to all of the clubs in the League. But there was no interest in him."

Barrett is obviously optimistic about the chances of promotion for his new club. When he was asked if Orient could close the ten point gap to United he said: "I don't see why not. Every club has a bad spell during a season and Cambridge haven't had theirs yet. Everything been going all right for them. They've had all the luck. Every little bit of luck has gone their way.

The U's dominated the first half with some superb passing and goalkeeper Caig had to be on top form, but United's rhythm broke down as they attacked the empty allotments end after the break.

"We lost our way a bit," McFarland added." We started over-elaborating and even Alex Russell was giving the ball away and putting us in trouble. We got away with it, but I made it very clear at the end that we can't afford that sort of thing."

After going unbeaten throughout January the season enters a difficult phase now. United are five points behind Cardiff City with a game in hand on the leaders, but in the league there are three away games in the next four and Saturday's AWS draw produced an away tie at second division Walsall.

Assistant secretary Mark Johnson confirmed on Saturday that the single leg Southern Area semi-final of the competition will be played on Tuesday, February 16 with a 7.45pm kick-off.

"It's a hard draw," McFarland told the Cambridge Evening News, "but we've had plenty of those this season, and we've beaten three higher division teams in Watford, Sheffield Wednesday and Northampton. It's one for us to look forward to. It eases the pressure of the League to have a game like that in which we become the underdogs with nothing to lose."

Walsall are going well in third place behind Fulham and Preston, but they lost 2-0 at home to Wigan Athletic on Saturday.