CARL Macauley says he is not worried Witton Albion have lost momentum following successive postponements in the past fortnight.

A 2-1 win at Trafford on November 21 marks the last time his side played a competitive match.

But the manager says time on the training ground together has been well-spent.

“The group’s spirit is stronger for it,” he said.

“There wasn’t much of that when I arrived, but with every session the lads have more of an understanding of what we want them to do in certain areas of the pitch.

“Of course we want to play, and our new signings Ryan Ellison and Rob Hopley are desperate to make their debut, but there’s nothing we can do about it.

“We’d have liked a chance to put some points on the board after getting on a bit of a roll, but there’s no reason we can’t still do that.”

Albion have won three of their past four matches, although only one of those was in the Northern Premier League’s Division One North.

They start Saturday’s clash at Brighouse, opponents who have lost just once at home this season, occupying 18th place in the table.

Macauley said: “We haven’t set ourselves any targets, though of course the minimum is that we survive.

“It’s no use looking too far ahead either; when you’re trying to instil confidence in a squad, then the next game is the most important one.

“That’s where you put all your focus.”

Sam Hughes has returned to Chester following a month-long loan, but fellow midfielder Billy Reeves has extended his temporary stay from Port Vale.

Goalkeeper Andy Firth is available again this weekend, while Michael Brewster’s stint does not end until January.

“They’ve all made a contribution,” said Macauley.

“Sam had done well, but we have cover in midfield and he wanted to see if he could force his way into the team at Chester.

“I’m happy with how the others have done, and it’s great we’ve got Billy for a little longer because he’s added something in the centre of the pitch.”

Witton are scheduled to meet title rivals Warrington and Northwich in the space of 48 hours at Christmas.

The Yellows are in town on Boxing Day, while tenants Vics provide the opposition the following Monday.

Struggling Harrogate Railway Athletic arrive in Northwich on January 2.