As Tom Laker finally conceded defeat to injury and hung up his boots, and the recent loss of Rhodes and Thomas, the committee moved quickly to fill the growing shortage of fire-power and fast-tracked Gordon Brogdale through the strollers and reserve team and into the centre-forward slot. Brogdale had been banging in goals for Epsom Town since before the war, during which time he assisted Crystal Palace’s reserve team. Jock Smith moved to the wing and Stannard inside to accommodate the change.