Home comforts can keep Poppies' hopes alive

Marcus Law shows his frustration during the Poppies' 3-1 defeat at Histon. Pictures by Peter Short

The Poppies are facing a mountain to climb if they are to threaten the top five following a poor 3-1 defeat at struggling Histon on Saturday.

Law’s mean are now nine points behind fifth-placed King’s Lynn Town but still have four games in hand.

The Poppies head to Slough Town tomorrow (Tuesday) night and Law knows his team’s inconsistent performances is the big issue that needs resolving.

Spencer Weir-Daley equalised for Kettering before they went on to lose 3-1 at Histon

“I think we have been dealing in wins anyway,” Law said when asked about his side’s play-off chances.

“The one thing that still gives us a chance is the fact that our home form is very good and we have a lot of home games left.

“The issue we have got is not so much the opponents, it’s which Kettering side is going to turn up.

“I have got to look at it. The inconsistent performances are raising questions that need to be answered.”

Spencer Weir-Daley celebrates after his goal but it proved in vain as Kettering were beaten at Histon

Saturday’s setback sparked an angry response from the travelling army of Poppies fans, especially after they had watched their team brush aside the challenge of Dorchester Town with a 3-0 win just a few days earlier.

“I understand the fans’ frustrations, especially when we have put in a defensive display like we did on Saturday,” Law added.

“But it’s worth remembering that this is our first season in a tough league and I am still learning about some of the players, who have only been with me since November.”