Poppies can '˜rise to the challenge' at leaders Leamington

The Poppies bounced back from a poor 2-1 home defeat to Redditch United last Tuesday evening with a 1-0 victory over Dorchester Town on Saturday, courtesy of Rene Howe’s goal 17 minutes from full-time.

Kettering still have work to do to force their way back into the hunt for the play-off places and their next task is a tough one against the table-topping Brakes who are seven points clear and are yet to lose at home in the league this season.

Assistant-manager Ramshaw conceded Kettering looked “a bit nervy” as they saw the game out against Dorchester at the weekend.

He insists those nerves won’t disappear after one win but he firmly believes there is enough quality within the Poppies squad to give the leaders something to think about tomorrow.

“The boys were looking a bit nervy in the last 10 minutes or so and that’s no surprise because we were all anxious to win at home,” Ramshaw said.

“All of that won’t go away with one win though. It’s only when you win three or four on the bounce that you settle into games. And when you have that behind you and you are 1-0 up with 10 minutes to go you don’t get as nervous.

“We are as aware as anyone that we need to put that sort of run together.

“Tuesday won’t be easy, it’s a tough game at the best of times.

“We have got quality in that side but it is a massive challenge. But I am sure the players will be ready to rise to that challenge.”