Kendal v Witton

Having now seen Witton’s first three games, I expect the away trip to Kendal to be the match which will really test the promotional aspirations of the squad.

Firstly, the game against a physical Lincoln Utd team was particularly poor given how the team had performed during the pre-season phase. Secondly, though Marine are usually fancied as being a promotion contender they were already weakened by injury and so the excellent performance on Tuesday last was against a side that I would have expected to be stronger when all players were available. Thirdly, the match against Stamford highlights why they are indeed pointless after 3 fixtures.

At Kendal, the pitch has a wicked slope, the side are always capable of springing a few surprises and the team selected for Witton will have to battle and the prospect of playing flowing football on the deck will need some rethinking as the pitch will not allow it. Also with two games in rapid succession, we will judge how fit the players are.

If we win on Monday then for me we are looking good but the games to date should be taken in context.

I agree Kendal will be a good test, but I think this is the best time of year to be playing there, as the pitch should be in decent condition. At least we’ll only be playing on a slope, not a slope made of thick mud!

Interesting to see the referees clamping down on foul play. Have we just been lucky so far, or has a directive been issued? If all the refs are consistent on this issue this season, I can foresee quite a lot more red cards against us as teams try to stop us from playing.

Will be a toughie - however we seem to struggle in a bad way or cruise up at kendal, was it 5-1 last year, but I can remember a few stuffings too there. It will however be different being able to see the lines as the pitch isnt covered in leaves and it not looking like glastonbury! Mouldeds not wellies will be needed I expect!

For supporters travelling up to Kendal tomorrow, the information printed in Saturday’s programme is correct as it was provided by Kendal Town’s secretary.

For those not able to make the trip, updates will appear on here as usual.