First timers will provide tough test

Unbeaten Pontefract Collieries will provide another tough test for Reds in Monday’s (3pm) North West Division encounter at Borough Park.

The return to league action comes on the back of Saturday’s disappointing Cup reverse at Newcastle Benfield and, whilst we were losing in the north east, Collieries were being held (1-1) by another Northern League club, Hebburn Town.

It will the first ever meeting against Colls and we trust they enjoy the trip to west Cumbria.  In turn, we look forward to visiting their ground on New Year’s Day.

After finishing as runners-up in the East Division last season, Pontefract have made a good start to the new campaign, drawing (1-1) at Runcorn Linnets on the opening day before inflicting a 1-0 defeat upon neighbours, Tadcaster Albion, last week.

Danny Grainger hinted that he may make changes to the starting XI for the second home game following the battle in the heat on Saturday.