Rudd ready for return and Rory's suspension reduced

FC United were given a double boost today with the news that Rory Patterson’s suspension has been reduced from 35 days to three games following an appeal and Stuart Rudd may be ready to return to action as early as tonight against Garforth Town after a month on the sidelines.

Patterson could resume his partnership with Rudd, who was last season’s top scorer with 45 goals, tonight and again on Saturday against Bridlington Town before serving his ban during the Bank Holiday Monday trip to Rossendale, the FA Cup Preliminary Round match against Trafford and the UniBond Challenge Cup tie against Division One South side, Alsager Town.

Manager Karl Marginson was pleased with both pieces of news and explained more about the situation with Rudd, who wasn’t expected to be available for selection for another week or two due to a broken wrist. He said: "Rudd was a big miss for us on Saturday as we had a number of chances in the box that he would have thrived on. We’ll give him a late fitness test, but indications are that he will return which is obviously a big boost."??

With regards to the general mood in the squad after Saturday’s opening day defeat, Margy added: "We are upbeat and positive. It’s our first home game and the league isn’t won or lost on the first day of the season. Against Lancaster, we prepared well and did all the little things that you should do right, it was just one of those days when we couldn’t force a goal.

"I don’t think there was any lack of confidence against Lancaster but certainly having the fans there on Wednesday will be a big boost and it would be great to get three points on the board."??