TERRY Dolan is ready to wield the axe for tomorrow's clash with high-flying Bristol Rovers in order to halt York City's run of three successive defeats.

Although striker Alex Mathie is the only fresh face added to the 16-man squad that featured at Carlisle in midweek, Dolan admits changes to the starting-line up are imminent.

The City boss was remaining tight-lipped about the possible changes, but Matt Hocking seems likely to reclaim a starting berth at the expense of an out-of-sorts Mike Basham in the centre of defence.

But the City chief, anxious to restore some defensive solidity to the Minstermen, may also tinker in midfield. On the left, Nick Richardson could make way with Neville Stamp coming in at left-back and Graham Potter moving into midfield.

On the right, Richard Cooper may also return at the expense of young winger Marc Salvati, who missed training yesterday to have a tooth removed.

"It might not be the right type of game for Salvati," said Dolan.

Explained the City boss: "Over the last three games we have conceded eight goals and that is a concern.

"We have not been inconsistent in terms of results in our last three games but our performances over the 90 minutes have been.

"That is something we need to sort out and it has certainly given thought to possible changes.

"If I do, the players will just have to accept it. And even if I do make changes, we will still have to defend better as a team."

With Rovers rocked by a mounting casualty list on-loan Fulham striker Elvis Hammond is poised for a rare starting role.

Rovers climbed to third in the table after Tuesday night's 2-1 win against Southend United courtesy of a last minute strike from skipper Andy Thomson.

However, victory was marred for the Pirates by the injury picked up by striker Ross Weare.

Weare, signed from QPR at the beginning of the season, suffered a back injury in the first-half against the Shrimpers and had to be stretchered from the field.

To make matters worse for Francis, first choice front man Nathan Ellington missed the game because of a chest injury, suffered when he tripped on a ball during training a few weeks earlier.

Ellington later returned for a couple of games but was rested against United and although still not fully-fit may be rushed back to action against City tomorrow.

Should Ellington not be risked, Francis will turn to Hammond and burly striker Martin Cameron to share front-line duties with at least one of them guaranteed to start in a straight swap for Weare.

Former Arsenal midfielder David Hillier also faces a late fitness test after picking up an ankle injury against Southend but is expected to be available.

Updated: 11:43 Friday, September 21, 2001