AFC Telford clash with Kettering vital in survival scramble

Kettering boss Ashley Westwood believes tomorrow's scheduled clash with AFC Telford United is a key game in a "mini league" at the bottom of the Blue Square Bet Premier.

The duo are among a group of eight teams scrambling to avoid finishing in the four relegation positions.

Freezing weather conditions mean tomorrow's clash at Nene Park is in severe doubt but Westwood believes it will be a pivotal match - whenever it is finally played.

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"Telford are a side we can drag right into it while they will be thinking it's a great chance to move clear," said Westwood.

"There is a bit of a mini league going on at the bottom and it's up to us to finish as high up as possible in that. There is a bit of a gap up to Ebbsfleet after that.

"So it goes without saying that when these games come along against the sides around you, you have to pick up the points."

Telford will be looking to complete a double over Kettering, having beaten them 3-1 at the New Bucks Head.

Mark Cooper had just taken charge of the Poppies back then, but he has since moved on amid all the financial uncertainty at the club.

Westwood, who has led his side to wins in each of their last two games, said: "I have had a look at the DVD of the game at Telford last month and they looked a decent team that day.

"They have probably suffered with consistency which is a problem for a lot of teams in this league.

"Unfortunately, we probably won't get the chance to do that tomorrow," he added.

"I have been keeping an eye on the weather forecasts and while it may get milder over the weekend, I am not sure it will happen early enough. I would put big money on it being off.

"But we are prepared, we will be ready because if you don't do things right, you will only get caught out."

The only definite absentee for Kettering is defender Jaime Navarro, who is still out with an ankle injury picked up in the 3-1 defeat at Telford.

See also:

• Andy Brown on 24-hour stand-by for AFC Telford

• Cold snap could see off another game for AFC Telford