MATT Tipton could be missing for up to a fortnight after sustaining a second groin strain in training.

The Welsh striker missed the Shakers' opening game of the season but aggravated the injury again in training on Monday and could now face an extended spell on the sidelines.

Fellow striker Tom Youngs is nearing full fitness after a similar injury and defender Chris Brass should be back in contention for the home game against Shrewsbury this Saturday after an ankle knock.

Second choice goalkeeper Aaron Grundy is also nearing full fitness following a shin injury.

It has been a testing week for boss Chris Casper after consecutive defeats against MK Dons and Chester City.

Before the season began, the Shakers chief urged his side to show a more attacking approach. But barring a few glimpses against the Dons, the Shakers have failed to find any real fluency.

Now Casper has issued a challenge to his squad to pick themselves up for the visit of the Shrews this weekend and prove they were worthy of their pre-season billing.

"We are not just one dimensional, or at least we are trying not to be," said the Shakers boss. "We looked it against Chester. We had no disguise in our play and we didn't get the ball out wide.

"There is no point trying to pull the wool over people's eyes. People have bad games and you are allowed to have bad performances, but when you are out-fought and out-battled, then there are no excuses to make."