CHELTENHAM TOWN endured a disappointing campaign last season, as they were relegated from League One, finishing 11 points below the drop zone, writes MIKE SIMMONDS.The Robins had to ship out a number of their squad during the end of the season run, with

CHELTENHAM TOWN endured a disappointing campaign last season, as they were relegated from League One, finishing 11 points below the drop zone, writes MIKE SIMMONDS.

The Robins had to ship out a number of their squad during the end of the season run, with the likes of Lloyd Owusu and Damian Spencer going on loan to Brighton and Brentford respectively.

They have been able to strengthen this season though, with veteran striker Barry Hayles making Whaddon Road his eighth port of call, after spending time at the club on loan last season.

Fellow striker Justin Richards has also joined, signing from Kidderminster and after a slow start to the campaign, has netted three times in his last two games.

The club also re-signed former favourite Julian Alsop, who is close to becoming the club's leading scorer in league football, while former Fulham Elvis Hammond striker ensures there are plenty of options upfront.

Also moving to Cheltenham on transfer deadline day was Tottenham Hotspur youngster Sam Cox on a month's deal.

In charge of the club is the one known as 'Mad Dog' as Martin Allen took over in September 2008, but couldn't prevent the club from dropping down to League Two.

The former Barnet, Brentford, MK Dons and Leicester boss, has seen his side make a decent start to the season, picking up eight points from the first five games to sit in mid-table.

Their home form hasn't been great though, as after an opening day win over Grimsby Town, they lost have lost to Southend, Bradford and Torquay in various competitions.

TEAM NEWS

Daggers: Tom Kilbey might have to make do with a place on the bench after signing from Portsmouth in the week, while Anwar Uddin has joined Grays on loan. Striker Mark Nwokeji is Daggers' only injury worry, but he isn't expected to be fit before Christmas.

Cheltenham: Robins boss Martin Allen is hopeful that the club's injury crisis is ending, with both Elvis Hammond and David Hutton pushing for recalls.

WE'VE MET BEFORE

Daggers will want to put their only ever trip to Whaddon Road firmly behind them, as they were thumped 5-1 in a Football League Trophy tie back on September 28, 2004.

A goal from Chris Moore had brought Daggers, who included Tony Roberts, Anwar Uddin and Scott Griffiths back to 2-1, but a trio of late goals saw the Robins as comfortable winners.

ONE TO WATCH

Elvis Hammond - cost Leicester �225,000 back in 2005, but never really justified his price tag and was allowed to join Cheltenham on a free in August 2008.

Still a handful in the penalty area though, and has netted three times already this season.

FROM THE DUGOUT

I have massive respect for John because he works on a shoestring budget and he has been a good friend of mine for a long time," said Cheltenham boss Martin Allen.

"John has some very good contacts who have helped him recruit a lot of good players, which has been the key and they have young, hungry players.

"Playing the league leaders will be a good challenge for us and it's a chance for us to test ourselves."

PREDICTION

A closely-fought game with Daggers pinching a 2-2 draw

Can Daggers emerge victorious against Cheltenham? Email: mike.simmonds@archant.co.uk

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