Confident Poppies ready for Slough test

Marcus Law says Kettering Town are feeling confident ahead of the clash at second-placed Slough Town

The Poppies have been in good form recently with last Saturday’s 6-1 demolition of Cirencester Town being their third win in a row in the Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division.

They are set for a thorough examination on the artificial surface at Slough’s Arbour Park, where the hosts have been beaten just twice this season.

But Law insists his team will be looking for all three points after he admitted draws aren’t of much use to them as they bid to haul themselves right back into the play-off picture.

“We are looking forward to it,” the Poppies boss said.

“We are confident we can give anyone in the division a game but we have to make sure we concentrate on our defending and make ourselves solid.

“If we can do that then we know we have the quality to cause problems at the other end but we will have to be clinical with any chances when they come because there might not be as many as there were last weekend.

“Having spoken with their joint-managers towards the end of last season, Slough have been geared up for this. They have signed some good players and they have been up there right from the start.

“We are in a situation where draws aren’t really any use to us so we will go there looking to win because it’s victories we need if we are to get back into the hunt.

“It’s a different game and we have to take in account the surroundings. It’s an artificial pitch so it may be a game for our quicker and more technical players.”

Kettering are set to have a full-strength squad to choose from with the exception of young midfielder Ben Bradshaw, who confirmed on social media that he won’t require an operation on the knee injury he suffered in the 2-0 loss at Merthyr Town at the start of last month.

“It’s great news that Ben doesn’t require an operation,” Law added.

“We will make sure he has the right support around him but we won’t be rushing him because the future is more important for him and the club.”

The Poppies Supporters Coach is travelling to Slough tomorrow.

The coach will be leaving Rockingham Road at 11.30am and Latimer Park at 11.45am.

Anyone who would like to book a seat should contact Brian on 07910 793276.