Webb sets a high standard

King's Lynn boss Keith Webb promises no repeat of last season's Yate horror show in today's latest Southern League, Premier Division visit to Lodge Road.

Lynn crashed to a 3-0 defeat after travelling to the West Country with only 14 fit players but Webb insists his latest crop is made of sterner stuff.

The pre-season title favourites earned a hard fought opening day draw at Bashley before ending their Corby hoodoo in midweek.

"Someone told me it was our first win there in 23 years," said Webb. "What made it even more satisfying is what happened last season. It was a battle and we were found wanting. Everybody told me King's Lynn over the last couple of years have been about good football. But at times that is not enough. We could've played better this season - our passing has been a bit wayward - but they've set the standard now. What they gave me at Corby is the bare minimum.

"It's ludicrous to look at league tables yet. We just need to stay focused. Lynn were in a good position when I came in, winning games on the bounce, and maybe people got carried away and a little bit excited thinking we were going to do this or that."

Stephen Spriggs retains his place in the squad following Matt O'Halloran's departure. Ben Chapman (calf) is targeting a comeback against Tiverton next week. Webb confirmed Norwich City youngster Matthew Halliday had turned down a loan move. The 19-year-old defender - who was on loan at Torquay last season - has decided to stay at Carrow Road.

"It's a little bit disappointing, but it's his decision," said Webb. "He felt it wasn't right for his football career and that is Matthew's prerogative."

Peterborough loan recruit Adam Smith was in the travelling party.

"I've got to sit down with him and have a long chat to see how he feels," said Webb. "Adam wants to play football but I want to make sure that he is right. For me, he is the type of lad who can play in a number of positions. I don't just see him as a defender, he can also operate further forward."

Webb admits he has a selection dilemma with Lynn also heading to Rugby on Bank Holiday Monday.

"It's a situation both myself and Lee (Glover) need to assess," he said. "We've got lads chomping at the bit. Danny Bloomfield has worked ever so hard in pre-season and Andy Fisk is in the same boat. They are good players and I know they will be capable of maintaining the same level if they come in."

The versatile Charlie Defty is set to escape any potential early season rotation.

"Charlie has been nothing short of magnificent," said Webb, with the homegrown product featuring at left back and centre half in the opening week of the campaign.

Yate first choice keeper Tony Court is injured. Lee Jefferies returns after missing the midweek Tiver-ton draw. Player/coach Paul Chenoweth and Dave Elsey will undergo fitness tests but Dave Anyinsah (hamstring) is a major doubt.

King's Lynn (from): Howie, Murray, West, Smith, Warren, Lake, Defty, Fisk, Camm, Frew, Melton, Ridgway, Turner, Nolan, Bloomfield, Francis, Spriggs.