GORDON Watson yesterday suffered frustration as his comeback stuttered.

Watson was due to play in his second reserve game after four months on the sidelines following a broken leg, but the planned friendly behind closed doors between Hartlepool United and Darlington was called off.

The game was off because of a waterlogged Maiden Castle pitch, but the reserve teams go head-to-head at Feethams next Wednesday, a game in which Watson is sure to feature.

And Watson yesterday had a warning for Pool's leading scorer Eifion Williams - vowing he will be going flat out to catch him in the scoring stakes.

Williams' 14th of the season on Tuesday was enough to see off Macclesfield and Watson, with five goals to his name this season, is after top spot.

He said: "I had three targets when the season started - to help the team and myself to third division winners' medals, to finish top scorer at the club again and also in the league.

"One out of three, the big one, is looking good. But it's just been so frustrating not to be out there on the park helping the lads.

"There's obviously always concern when you break a bone in your leg and I did have one or two sleepless nights, but it wasn't nearly as bad as the last time.

"Now I'm back in full training and more enthusiastic about playing this year than I can ever remember. I had five goals on the board before cracking a bone against Darlo - and I'd like to think I might still give Eifion a run for his money."

Watson again knocked down suggestions of a bust-up with new boss Mike Newell.

He said: "When people hear rumours about me they should ask themselves where they've come from and then laugh. I promise that nine times out of ten they will be as fictitious as Santa Claus popping down your chimney on Christmas Eve.

"The facts are that I'm not overweight, I am not joining Chris at Sheffield Wednesday and I have not had an argument with the boss. I just want the fans to stay behind us and I feel confident that they will be richly rewarded."