WORCESTER City could be without striker Mark Shepherd as they step up their fight to finish third in the Dr Martens League Premier Division tonight.

Shepherd is doubtful for the trip to Crawley Town (7.45) after picking up a groin strain in Saturday's 3-0 defeat at champions Margate.

Manager John Barton may draft in youth development officer Ray Woods alongside Mark Owen up front, while Steve Lutz could also be pushed up from midfield.

Defenders Chris Greenman and Ian Cottrill both face fitness tests on thigh and rib injuries. Full-back Andy Bradley and winger Ian Reed are also included in after long-term absences.

City make a quick return tonight to the scene of last week's Dr Martens Cup triumph, knowing that victory will take them up one place to fourth, level on points with third-placed King's Lynn.

A win would also guarantee a top six finish for John Barton's men, with their final game at Havant on Saturday.

Barton said: "We can finish on 68 points and if we get the points tonight, it not only helps our cause but puts another side below us out of reach.

"We are finishing off with two tricky games, but it would be nice to gain revenge for our second leg defeat last week."

A young City side lost 1-0 at home to Burton Albion in the Central Conference last night, having won 4-1 at Telford earlier in the week.

City will select from: McDonnell, Carty, Lutz, Tucker, Weir, Heeley, Joyce, Ellis, Owen, Shepherd, Hyde, Bradley, Reed, Greenman, Cottrill, Woods.