If Silsden take to the field against Vodkat League Division One leaders Newcastle Town at Cougar Park on Saturday, it will be their first run-out in a fortnight.

Cobbydalers boss Paul Schofield is confident the game will go ahead and has no fears about taking on the top side. In fact, he is relishing the prospect of extending his unbeaten record against them.

"We beat them at their place 1-0 earlier in the season but we will have to watch out because no doubt they will want to avenge that defeat and also strive to keep their place at the summit," warned Schofield.

"But there is no reason we should feel inferior or talk ourselves down, as we beat them twice last season home and away. For once Silsden are someone else's bogey side, which makes a welcome change.

"Regarding the pitch, I went to the ground today and it looks remarkably good considering. Keighley and Silsden had it bad last Monday; probably the worst-hit areas in the district.

"Our under-19s suffered another postponement in the week, simply because of the amount of water that came down. It has dried up a lot since then and the forecast is not too bad, so fingers crossed.

"It will be two weeks since we played and Newcastle have had regular games, so there is that to factor into the equation as well. On the plus side, we have no fresh injuries and Graham Holmes has had extended rest for his slight groin strain."

As with other clubs, Silsden have struggled to get players free from suspensions and skipper Martin Bland and midfielder Mark Bentham are both sidelined this weekend.

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