Holbeach United boss Barnes happy to welcome back key men for Long Eaton clash

Phil Barnes is relieved to have a full squad available again on Saturday as Holbeach United once again go in search of their first Uhlsport UCL Premier Division North win of the season.

The Tigers, who were severely depleted in the 0-0 draw with Pinchbeck United last time out, have a different challenge facing them this weekend as they bid to end a streak of six games without a win in all competitions.

That’s because much-fancied Long Eaton United are the visitors to Carter’s Park (3pm), a side boss Barnes had dubbed “the best he’s seen so far this season” and who boast a 100 per cent record after four games.

Holbeach have seen first-hand just how good their opponents can be, having been dumped out of the Emirates FA Cup by them 4-1 back on the second weekend of the season.

Barnes is particularly wary of their long throw, which he has dubbed “a weapon” but hopes his side will be better prepared this time around.

“Long Eaton are the best side I’ve seen so far this season,” admitted the Holbeach boss. “I’d expect them to be right up there at the end of the season.

“They deservedly beat us in the FA Cup and played some good stuff. But they’ve also got a player with an absolute weapon of a long throw.

“Every time the ball goes out of play it’s a major threat for us to deal with. We’re obviously aware of it now and it won’t take us by surprise, so we know what’s coming and will try to contend with.

“They do move and switch the ball well too, but obviously that kind of throw – if you can remember Delap’s for Stoke all those years ago – can bother any team at any level.

“From our point of view, we’ll look to play our usual style and back ourselves. Having a full squad to pick from is a real bonus and not something we’ve had very often this season.”

Meanwhile, Holbeach have made a seven-day approach for Moulton Harrox midfielder Tyler Wright, who was part of the Pinchbeck United side who won the UCL Division One title under Ian Dunn.

More recently he has enjoyed spells with Wisbech Town and FC Parson Drove.