WORCESTER City's FA Umbro Trophy second round tie against Hendon has finally been given the go-ahead tonight -- at the third attempt.

The game will be played at St Albans City's Clarence Park ground (7.45), after the pitch passed an inspection today.

There will be relief all round that the tie will finally go ahead, particularly in the Worcester camp.

But City boss John Barton believes the fact that the tie has been switched to St Albans, because of problems at Hendon's own pitch, could work in their favour.

He said: "It has dragged on a bit, but the fact that the game has been moved means they have conceded any home advantage, and I am told that the pitch at St Albans is in quite good condition."

City are expected to field the side that suffered a costly 1-0 defeat at Dr Martens League Premier Division leaders Burton Albion on Saturday.

Winger Mike Wyatt is ruled out by a calf strain, while striker Carl Tranter is also sidelined by an ankle injury sustained during the warm-up on Saturday. Chris Jefferson, who came on as a late substitute up front, is unavailable due to work commitments.

Barton added: "I thought we should have got some reward on Saturday through the endeavour and commitment of the players. Hopefully we will make up for that tonight."

The winners of tonight's tie will entertain Dr Martens Western Division side Tiverton Town in the third round on January 13. If it is drawn, the replay is likely to be next Monday, December 18.

Worcester (from): McDonnell, Bradley, Jukes, Tucker, Heeley, Carty, Lutz, Cottrill, Owen, Cotter, Reed, Weir, Hyde, Scheppel, Joyce, P. Wyatt.