Whitley are on their travels for the final time this season when they make the journey to Cumbria this weekend to take on a resurgent Penrith. The ‘Bonny Blues’ have endured a difficult season, well adrift at the foot of the table for much of the campaign, but a recent upturn in form has seen them suffer just one defeat in their last six games and climb to within six points of second bottom Whickham with two games in hand. With the situation regarding relegation still unclear due to the FA’s league restructuring programme, avoiding bottom place could yet prove crucial so Penrith have plenty to play for in their remaining three games. A remarkable 5-3 victory at Bishop Auckland was followed last week by a battling 0-0 draw at West Auckland and with prolific scorer Martyn Coleman back at the club, the Cumbrians will provide a tough challenge for Nathan Haslam and his side, who will be looking to get back to winning ways following two disappointing defeats.
Whitley will have Craig McFarlane back in the squad after missing last week’s game against Guisborough and after rotating his squad in recent games, Haslam has indicated that he will be fielding his strongest available eleven.
Once again, Whitley are assured of good support and there will be a full coach making the trip to Cumbria.
