Local Guardian Sport
Ruby inury a blow to Beavers survival hopes
5:12pm Thursday 16th February 2012
Hampton & Richmond Borough were dealt a huge blow in their bid for Blue Square South survival this week with news skipper Matt Ruby is likely to miss the rest of the campaign.
The centre back had to be replaced just eight minutes into the Beavers' 4-1 FA Trophy third round defeat to Northwich Victoria on Tuesday with a suspected dislocated knee.
While it now seems he did not dislocate the joint, he was in hospital for scans yesterday and manager Mark Harper still expects the 25-year-old to miss the league run-in.
"Matt dislocated his knee last year and we initially thought it was the same injury, but it might not be now," he said.
"He went to hospital on Wednesday and had a scan yesterday, which should definitely show us what the injury is - but it still looks like it could keep him out for the season.
"It will be a big blow for us as he has played almost every league game and been one of our most consistent players this season.
"His leadership and drive will be a big loss to us."
Dave Tarpey scored Hampton's goal on Tuesday but the Beavers were already 3-0 down by then as Evo Stik Northern Premier side Victoria, struggling with off-field financial problems that has seen them kicked out of their stadium, blew them away.
And Harper admitted he was left disconsolate by his side's showing and expects a response when they return to their fight for league survival at home to Eastleigh on Saturday.
"Take nothing away from Northwich Victoria, they deserved the win and were by far the better side," he said.
"I don't mind getting beaten by a better side, but I don't like players who have an opportunity to have a good run in a cup competition letting that opportunity go by.
"Our players just didn't turn up on the night and I was a little bit disappointed to say the least, but you have got to take it on the chin.
"The boys were just as disappointed as us on the coach back but it is a long way to go just to turn up, put your kit on, go through the motions and get on the coach back again.
"I am looking for a massive response and I think I should get it.
"Not just against Eastleigh on Saturday, but for the rest of the season in the league, as that is all we have to play for now."