Fenton is happy with side’s progress despite setback at Witton

SOUTH Shields joint-manager Graham Fenton believes last weekend’s 3-1 defeat at Witton Albion should take nothing away from a strong start to the season.

Despite that reverse in Cheshire, the Mariners sit seven points clear at the top of the Premier Division table after losing just two of their opening 13 games of the campaign.

They will hope to extend that lead this weekend when mid-table outfit Grantham Town head to South Tyneside looking to become only the second side to take anything away from Mariners Park so far this season.

Speaking in the aftermath of the defeat at Witton Albion, Fenton said: “If we had looked at a league table at the start of the season and said we are 13 games in and in this position, of course we would have snapped your hands off. We always have to look at the positives – we are in a fantastic place.

“We will try and put it right and get a reaction on Saturday.

The Mariners will continue to assess the fitness of captain Jon Shaw and attacking midfielder Josh Gillies ahead of the game.

■ MORPETH Town could move into the top ten of the Premier Division table with a win at Hyde United.

The Highwaymen racked up an impressive 3-0 home win against Atherton Collieries in midweek thanks to goals from Joe Walton, Jack Foalle and Tom Potter.

■ DUNSTON UTS make a welcome return to league action when they entertain Trafford this weekend.

Chris Swailes’ side sits in the bottom three of the North West Division table – but Swailes will be without the injured Dan Lowther and the suspended Michael Hall for tomorrow’s game.