BASHLEY boss Steve Riley has expressed his relief that goalkeeper David Elm was not sidelined for more than one game through injury.

But at the same time, the Recreation Ground chief was quick to praise Steve Hollick for the great job he does as permanent understudy.

Elm was ruled out of the New Foresters' 3-2 win at Chippenham last week with a shin injury, a game in which Hollick performed admirably.

Riley recalled Elm for his side's 1-0 home triumph over Banbury on Saturday, and the same custodian will be on duty at Gloucester City in the league tonight (7.45pm).

Asked how he felt about Elm overcoming his injury problem so promptly, Riley said: "I'm really pleased.

"We thought initially it might have been worse than it was after he sustained it in our 3-1 home defeat against Halesowen.

"Lucklly, it was just badly bruised. He made a quick recovery. He's quite good when it comes to injuries.

"Steve deputised in goal at Chippenham and did really well, but he realises he's a little bit behind David. He knows David is number one and he's number two.

"He was fine with it. He knows if David stays fit he will play."

Riley, whose side have bounced back from a dodgy start to win their last two Southern League Premier Division matches, added: "It's nice having David in goal.

"He's a big tall player who when you see him between the sticks, he fills them with a big frame. It puts the opposition off straight away and gives confidence to your back four.

"It's great he wasn't out too long, but it's also nice to know when Steve is required he can come in and do a good job like he did at Chippenham."

Riley's side drew 0-0 with Gloucester at home last season, but triumphed 2-0 away in March with strikes from Richard Gillespie and Ryan Moss.

Unsurprisingly, Riley expects another tough encounter against a fifth-placed side who won 2-0 at Yate on Saturday, and who are unbeaten with nine points from five games.

Riley said: "There was hardly anything between the two teams last season.

"You always want to keep the point you've already got away before you get off the bus. Anything else is a bonus."

Bashley: (from) Elm, Gazzard, Castle, Parnell, Ferrett, Knowles, Finlay, Rose, Sainsbury, Tarr, Eastham, Gillespie, Knight, Keeler, Hollick, Middleton.