Football: Yate closing in on striker Knighton (From Gazette Series)

Tom Knighton in talks with Yate over move from Mangotsfield

9:38am Thursday 26th January 2012 in Yate and Sodbury Sport By Rob Iles

ASSISTANT manager Michael Meaker insists players are joining Yate because of the club’s ambition, not the money.

Yate recorded their fourth away win in a row at struggling Wimborne to move level on points with Mangotsfield, and they could rub salt into the wounds of their local rivals if they pinch striker Tom Knighton.

Mangotsfield’s top scorer met boss Rob Cousins for talks on Tuesday night after Yate made a seven-day approach, and they are hoping he will agree to join them before Saturday’s home game against Thatcham Town (3pm).

Mangos boss Phil Bater has also seen Matt Groves leave to join Yate this season and publicly stated that his club cannot compete financially, but Meaker says they are not throwing money around.

“If people come to join Yate, it’s not for the money but because of the ambition of the club,” he said.

“We’ve got a budget and we’ve got to get players out to get players in.

“If we keep going we might have a chance of a play-off place, but we’re looking for a team that can challenge from the start of next season.”

Knighton has scored nine goals this season, including one against Yate in Mangotsfield’s 2-0 win at Lodge Road in August.

His arrival would limit the chances of Neikell Plummer, who has joined Western League side Brislington on loan in order to get first team football under his belt.

Yate are also set to be without Adie Adams and Jake Cox for the rest of the season.

The versatile Adams suffered chest and neck injuries in a car crash last month which are worse than first suspected, while winger Cox went to see a specialist about his knee and will spend a prolonged period on the sidelines.

Mark Badman will miss the game against Thatcham as he continues to serve his three-match suspension.