Tooting & Mitcham boss Ian Hazel strengthened his squad further this week with the signing of former Molesey forward Mark Xavier, writes Mike Simmonds.

The capture of Xavier will give the Terrors healthy competition for places with recent recruit Andy Martin, Durrand Jemmott and Elliot Onochie all battling it out for the strikers' positions.

"Mark got a hat-trick in the reserves and if the paperwork is done he could be in the squad for the weekend," Hazel told the News.

"He is a good goalscorer and now gives us four quality attackers at the club."

However, Tooting have lost Lee Doherty the former Brighton defender has left Imperial Fields to join Premier side Enfield.

"It's disappointing that Lee has gone but he lives near Enfield and always had ambitions to play at a higher club," said Hazel.

On the pitch, Tooting progressed into the second qualifying round of the FA Cup at the second attempt as they overcame Cobham with the aid of a replay.

The two sides had drawn 0-0 at Imperial Fields last Saturday, but Lee Endersby's strike and a brace from Elliot Onochie saw the Terrors run out comfortable 3-0 winners on Tuesday night.

September 20, 2002 16:30