LUDLOW FC manager Christian Leech has challenged his players to step up and replace suspended top scorer Tom Everall for this weekend’s home game with Tipton Town Reserves.

Everall, who has netted four goals in Ludlow’s opening three games, was red-carded in the 2-1 West Midlands League Division Two defeat at Oldbury a fortnight ago.

Ludlow have not played since, with last Saturday’s game against AFC Bridgnorth Development called off due to pitch unavailability.

Leech’s men, who have won one and lost two so far, will hope to get back to winning ways against a Tipton side who have lost all four of their games.

Leech said: “We have had a two-week break so it’s almost like starting the season again for us and we have to put the last couple of defeats behind us.

“Tom has started off really well so it’s a blow that he’s missing but it’s up to somebody to take his place and give him a fight to get his shirt back."