MATLOCK Town go into tomorrow's league game against Ashton United looking to protect a five-match unbeaten run.

The Gladiators have been boosted by the extension of central defender Simon Sturdy's loan from Harrogate Town for another month and the permanent signing of Stef Frost.

Atkins said: "I'm really pleased that we've managed to extend Simon's loan as it was touch and go with regards to the playing budget.

"It's a real boost for us, particularly as two other clubs in our league wanted him."

Sturdy's excellent form alongside team captain James Lukic (pictured) has meant that player assistant manager Mark Haran has been unable to win a first-team berth.

Lukic has also blossomed alongside him and is again looking more like the commanding, confident leader he was before his move to Gainsborough Trinity in 2008.

Frost, who can operate in midfield or up front, was on loan at Matlock from Notts County towards the end of the 2007-8 campaign.

His career was interrupted when he suffered a badly broken leg in a 3-0 home win over Buxton in a Good Friday derby.

"He's a nice little player who passes the ball well, a willing worker who looks as if he knows what the game's all about," said Atkins.

Atkins believes that Matlock can continue their good run against Ashton.

"Ashton have always been a good, honest, hard-working side but now is a good time for us to play them," he said

Striker Ross Hannah (groin) is a doubt, while Ben Algar (muscle strain), Lee Featherstone (knee), Liam King (ankle) and Danny Wood (calf) are rated 50/50.