DAVE Webb has his fingers crossed over the fate of Swindon Supermarine skipper Zac Westlake as his side prepare to dive headlong into a potentially season-defining episode in their Southern League West campaign.

Westlake faced another assessment today after sustaining an injury in Monday’s 2-2 draw with Kidlington which was late revealed to be a fractured eye socket.

It leaves Webb sweating over the fitness of his captain as Marine embark on a limb-aching run of seven matches in 24 days at Bath side Larkhall Athletic tomorrow.

The Webbswood Stadium chief admits this month could be ‘pivotal’ in his side’s bid for league honours and would rather not have to make do without his influential on-pitch leader, despite the imminent returns of Brad Gray and Matt Coupe this weekend.

“It’s a huge ask for us,’’ he said of Marine’s forthcoming fixture list.

“We need to try and stay in and around that top six. It’s incredibly tight up at the top and anybody who can put three or four wins together will be right in it.

“It’s a pivotal month and hopefully we can come out of it still in that top six and, ideally, in the top three.’’

On Westlake, he added: “He’s having another assessment tomorrow (Friday), so we’re just hoping it’s not too serious.

“It’s not the sort of month to lose your skipper for.’’

Marine endured a mixed Christmas, swamping Cinderford Town 4-0 at home on December 23 before coming unstuck on their Boxing Day outing to Cirencester Town.

They battled back from a goal down to lead Kidlington on New Year’s Day, only to concede an equaliser and Webb added: “It’s been a difficult period.

“The Ciren game was the most disappointing because we didn’t turn up in any area or department.

“We’ve done well in two of the games and not turned up in one but the next few weeks will be important for us.’’