Bradford Park Avenue have another opportunity to rein in one of the clubs above them in the Evo-Stik League Premier Division on Saturday but know they face a difficult task against Buxton.

Avenue could have another two home debutants as boss John Deacey continues to be busy in the transfer market. Nathan Hotte and Liam Shepherd made their first starts for the club in Monday night’s home loss to leaders FC Halifax Town.

Deacey also revealed: “I’m trying to get two new players in time for them to be involved against Buxton. We are chasing a player who is with a Blue Square Premier club and have had talks.

“I brought Nathan and Liam in before Monday’s game and Nathan started wide on the right in midfield. I thought he was very good, especially considering it was his debut, and he will be an excellent acquisition.

“We need to bring players in to boost the squad because quite a few have left us over the last week or so. Dominic Riordan went out this week, Danny Facey has gone and a couple more.

“Ossett Town have taken some and Harrogate Railway Athletic. You can’t blame the lads because they want to play. That’s what they are in the game for and if they can get regular games elsewhere then they will.”

The Shaymen strengthened their position even further with the 3-1 victory at Horsfall Stadium. The defeat left their Bradford neighbours in 11th place, four points and positions below Saturday’s visitors Buxton.

The Derbyshire outfit have five games in hand on their hosts. The Halifax result also means Deacey is still seeking the first home win of his current spell in charge.

The harsh weather has restricted him to eight league games since late October and only two of those have been at Horsfall. Of the six away, Avenue have won three, drawn two and lost just once.

“Halifax are a very good side and there is no doubt about that,” said Deacey.

“Buxton are also a very accomplished outfit and they have a quality squad of players, so this game won’t be any easier than the last one. That is what you expect when you are in a tough league.

“We need to be stronger at home and we have to start taking our chances. That is why one of the players I’m hoping to land is a big striker with a good scoring record and I hope he will be here before the weekend.”