A WINTER break to ease injury concerns.

That's what Bala Town boss Colin Caton is looking forward to as the first portion of the J D Welsh Premier League draws to a close.

The Lakesiders' last game ahead of the mid-season split is Saturday's trip south to tackle Barry Town United (5.15pm).

It will be the end of a busy spell for Bala, who had five games in the space of 16 days over the festive period.

"I know it took it's taken its toll, but we got through it," said Caton.

"If we get through the Barry game unscathed, we will then have two weeks off.

"We will then look at getting everyone fit and ready."

David Thompson and Andrai Jones are likely to return to action following the Welsh Premier League's mid-season split.

So too will Stuart J Jones, who has a hamstring strain, but Anthony Stephens is likely to be out of action until next Christmas.

"Because the games are so intense and at such a high speed, people don't realise the injuries we get," added Caton.

Caton says he is looking to add one more player to his squad this month and Bala remain well in the mix to possibly secure a runners-up finish in the league this season.

Despite their injury concerns, fourth-placed Bala only trail second-placed Connah's Quay by five points.

"Nine weeks ago, we were well away from it," said Caton.

"But we have only lost two in 12 and one of them was against TNS.

"The current form is fantastic.

"We won every game in December and I was happy with the performances over Christmas.

"I was a bit upset with the first half against Llandudno, but looking back, it was the fifth game in 16 days."

Bala have already been busy during the January transfer window.

Last week, the Lakesiders signed a pair of players from Altrincham, namely John Disney and Lewis Short.

Twenty five-year-old Disney has previously played in the Welsh Premier League and he spent 18 months at Connah’s Quay, making 47 appearances for the Nomads and scoring on four occassions.

A versatile player, Disney can play at right or centre back, as well as in central midfield.

His previous clubs include Hednesford Town, Chester, Telford, Northwich and Stockport County.

Hailing from Cornwall, Disney has represented the Republic of Ireland at U-17 level.

Town’s transfer activity continued with the acquisition of left back Lewis Short.

Starting out at Congleton Town, he then moved to Crewe Alexandra, prior to spells at Nantwich, Northwich, Airbus and Connah’s Quay.

A player who is known for his long throws, Short has made almost 80 starts in the Welsh Premier League and is another useful addition for the Lakesiders.

Speaking of both signings, Bala Town manager Colin Caton told the club's website: “I’ve been an admirer of John for a long time.

"He was outstanding for Connah’s Quay last season and can play in a number of positions – midfield and across the back four.”

“It’s great to sign Lewis.

"Once we signed John, Lewis made contact with us to see if we would be interested as he is good mates with John and we couldn’t turn that opportunity down.

"Lewis has been an outstanding performer over the seasons in the Welsh Premier with Connah’s Quay and Airbus and he will add pace to the squad, as he can play as a defender or as a forward wide man.”

Caton added: “Both players will add to our squad and it’s much needed strength and depth to a small squad that’s been tested massively in the first 20 games.

"Anthony Stephens is out for the season, David Thompson, Stuart J Jones and Andrai Jones are all long-term injuries, so we welcome John and Lewis to our squad as top players and good lads that will add to our excellent team spirit.”

Short will wear the 22 shirt, with Disney wearing the 20 shirt for the Lakesiders.