JOHN Snape believes Worcester City's title chances have been damaged by too many draws but has not ruled out a late challenge to leaders Tamworth.

The midfielder, ecovering from a groin operation this week, predicts a shoot-out with Chippenham Town and Stafford Rangers for runners-up spot and he has still not given up hope on Tamworth slipping up somewhere along the line in their quest for the Dr Martens Premier Division championship.

City enjoy a rare blank weekend, but rivals Chippenham and Staf-ford go head-to-head at Hardenhuish Park in the battle to gain ground on runaway leaders Tamworth.

Snape is hoping to return before the end of the season, but has been left to reflect on what might have been since injuring himself against Tamworth in January and then succumbing to Gilmore's Groin.

"I'm just disappointed that I got injured because it might have made a difference and may be put a few more points on the board," he said.

"I don't think we have got a bad squad but it would be interesting if there had been a bit more competition for places and David Foy and Stewart Hadley had been fit.

"We've only lost five games in the league which is normally good enough to be winning titles, but it's the draws that have killed us," said Snape.

"But I don't see any reason why we shouldn't finish in runners-up spot.

"Stafford are a good side while Chippenham are difficult to beat, but like us draw too many games.

"Tamworth have shown their experience, but I still don't think it is over yet. They only have to lose one or two games and you never know."

Several first teamers will be in action for City's reserves tomorrow at home to Atherstone United (2.45) including Hadley, Mark Owen and Marc Burrow but Mark Shail is out after receiving a kick on an Achilles during training last night.

Pat Lyons (thigh) and David Holmes (groin) will not feature, while Foy's comeback has hit snags with the midfielder reporting a slight reaction in his knee.

City manager John Barton re-vealed that Foy was due to see a specialist today.