PADIHAM manager Graham Howarth is on the hunt for a central defender to boost his side after an indifferent start to their NWCL Division Two campaign.

The Storks have won two and lost three of their five matches - and face a tough test at home to Stone tomorrow.

"Last season, with just being promoted, we were an unknown quantity but I think people know how to play against us now," said Howarth.

"They try to stop us playing our passing football. Now we have to be clever and try and out-think teams."

Howarth thinks a new face in the back-line could get Padiham back on the right trail.

"We are giving teams 1-0 starts with sloppy goals and then struggling to score. The lads who are playing at the back are young but have done well but I think an experienced centre half could be the answer."

Carl Parker and Darren Forrest are doubts while first choice keeper Ian Hartley hasn't yet started this season.