Boss Law pleased with 'solid' Poppies

Marcus Law was happy with his team's performance as Kettering Town sealed a 2-0 victory over Stourbridge in the first qualifying round of the Buildbase FA Trophy. Pictures by Peter Short

Ben Toseland’s fine long-range strike gave the Poppies a half-time advantage before a Rhys Hoenes header wrapped things up with 10 minutes to go.

But Kettering had to produce an impressive defensive performance to keep the visitors at bay.

Rhys Hoenes jumps for joy after scoring Kettering's second goal

And Law said: “It was a bit of a sparring match if I am honest.

“I wouldn’t say both teams were fully at it and I think the team selections on both sides suggested they were looking at players.

“I thought we were solid throughout the game, chances were at a premium but when they came our way we took them.

“We jigged the shape and the wing-backs were strong but we had to match them up in the midfield because they were neat and tidy.

“But we have come away feeling quite comfortable. We stepped more into our stride in the last 20 minutes and that seems to be a running pattern to our play.

“It was a cup game so they were throwing numbers forward and we looked a threat on the counter.

“I just felt we were nice and solid and strong and when the chances came our way, we took them.”

The first qualifying round tie pitted the teams currently sitting in first and third in the Evo-Stik League South Premier Division Central against each other.

They will meet again in league at Latimer Park in just over three weeks.

And when asked whether this result would have any effect on that game, Law added: “I don’t think so.

“You could say they have looked at us and how they take it will be up to them.

“But we will concentrate on Stourbridge when the time comes. Our next priority is playing Needham Market away from home.

“It’s a long journey so we have to make sure we get everyone at it and put in a professional performance.”