AFC Ludlow manager Dave Cooper has conceded that not having Nathan Hodge available has hit the team this season.

Influential striker Hodge has been out with a back injury since the summer and has not been able to turn out for the Showtime Stadium side.

"He could have made a massive difference," said Cooper.

"Other players have chipped in, but we have certainly missed his goals.

"He is a top player."

AFC Ludlow are second in West Midlands (Regional) League Division One going into the New Year and trail leaders Bromyard Town by eight points. Cooper's team were not in action last Saturday due to their away game at St Martins being postponed due to a frozen pitch.

"The New Saints play there and their game was abandoned on Friday because of snow, so I knew it was in doubt," said Cooper.

"I then had the phone call at 10am on Saturday to say it was off.

"I was going to play in goal because Ian Havard had flu, as did Keanu Cooper.

"I had a side. but it was less than a full-strength team."

The only games to take place saw Wem hammer Worcester Raiders 7-2, while Stone Old Alleynians smash Lads Club 5-2.

AFC Ludlow's next game is this Saturday at home to Penncroft.

"We beat them 5-3 earlier this season after losing 3-2," said Cooper.

"We scored three times in the last 15 minutes to win the game.

"They were a very tough side and were quite physical.

"They have had some good results and some poor ones, so it's a tough one to call."