THAME United were facing a race against time today on the eve of the new season after Southern League bosses last night agreed to their ground-share with Aylesbury United - with one proviso.

The league rubber-stamped the deal as long as Thame provided a bond of £7,500 as a guarantee they will fulfil their obligation.

Club secretary Fred Sauls- bury said that the cheque had to arrive before tomorrow's fixture away to Cinderford Town in Division 1 West, but he was hopeful they could meet the deadline.

Two weeks ago, recently- appointed Thame boss Tony Joyce was told there was no team to manage after landlords Coleman Properties evicted them from Windmill Stadium.

However, now they have a base, Joyce is looking forward to taking charge for the first time tomorrow.

Ex-Oxford City striker Colin Simpson, Joe Da Silva, who was at University last year, Sion Kitson from Team Bath, Steve Groves from Berkhamsted and reserve keeper Paul Searle are set for debuts.

Strikers Nik Stewart (ankle) and Alex Stewart (groin) are out.

Banbury United are sweating on the fitness of striker George Redknap ahead of their Southern League Premier Division opener at Yate.

He picked up the injury in Tuesday's 7-0 friendly win against Easington Sports.

Their ex-Aylesbury skipper Paul Lamb, former Thame striker Jon Gardner, and ex-Brackley pair Neil King and Andy Baird are due to make their debuts.

Banbury are without midfielder Jason Burnham (holiday). Reserve team player Tommy Kinch is added to the squad.

HOLDERS Carterton take on Headington Amateurs in a repeat of last year's final for the Jim Newman Memorial Trophy at Clanfield FC on Sunday (4).