Defender David Beharall was withdrawn just before kick-off after twisting his knee in the warm-up. He has undergone an MRI scan and will now meet with a surgeon to assess the damage. Athletic have moved to shore up their problematic defence by signing a young centre-half from non-league circles. Former West Ham trainee Fitz Hall arrived from Chesham United for £20,000, plus £10,000 based on appearances. Hall (21) is 6ft 4ins and, after being released by the Hammers, had a spell with Barnet. He has since played for Chesham in the Ryman League. He was recommended to Athletic by Chesham manager Bob Dowie, the brother of Boundary Park first-team coach Iain. Hall impressed in a trial spell before Christmas and Athletic monitored his progress in subsequent weeks. He signed a contract to the summer of 2004 and was immediately tipped for a quick impact in league football. Iain Dowie said: “I've seen Fitz on a number of occasions and he is a good player. He has pace, he's athletic and he's comfortable on the ball. “I have high hopes for him and can see him being a
first-team regular soon. There's a little bit of work to do to get his fitness levels up, but once that's done he will be challenging the rest of the lads.”