SCARBOROUGH entertain fellow National Conference play-off rivals Halifax Town in a crucial game for both clubs.

Both have a transfer embargo in place due to being in administration - but at least Boro can do some deals.

Under the "one in one out" rule imposed by the Conference, Boro are hoping to give a debut to on-loan striker Gary Bradshaw, who is set to join the club from Hull City.

His debut is dependant upon Jason Blunt agreeing personal terms with Doncaster Rovers after he was called back from his loan spell at Yeovil Town.

The loan deal to the West Country club last week was sealed two hours before the transfer embargo came into place with the Conference insisting upon the letter of their new rule.

"It makes it very difficult for me as it is like trying to operate with both hands tied behind your back," said Scarborough manager Russell Slade.

With a tricky FA Trophy replay at Dover on Monday night, Boro really need a win to get their league form back after three successive defeats, as they are currently five points adrift of a play-off spot.

Slade has major injury worries as Tom Raw, Bimbo Fatokun and Mohammed Sillah have joined a lengthy list of those in the treatment room.

How Halifax will respond to their midweek shock defeat to UniBond League side Harrogate Town remains to be seen.

The Shaymen were beaten 2-1 on Tuesday by Harrogate in the West Riding County Cup.

Scarborough: Woods, Holdsworth, Shepherd, Dryden, Pounder, Ormerod, Stoker, Brassart, Rose, Bradshaw, Scott. Subs: Walker, Campbell, Dempsey, Henderson, Hotte.

Updated: 10:38 Friday, February 14, 2003