Express & Star

Rowe is braced for a tight battle

Sporting Khalsa boss Ian Rowe is predicting a fierce fight for glory after seeing his side side go top of the Midland League.

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A 2-0 success at home to Boldmere St Michaels, courtesy of two Gaz Singh goals, lifted Khalsa into pole position on a day when a number of games fell victim to the weather.

And with just five points separating Khalsa from eighth-placed South Normanton Athletic, Rowe believes this season’s title race is going to be wide open.

“We have gone top, but a lot of sides have games in hand on us,” said Rowe.

“When those teams catch up games-wise, we are probably be about third or fourth.

“I think it’s going to be really close at the top this season. I think there are eight sides who are contenders, so it’s important to stay in among the leading pack.

“It was a good performance on Saturday. We could have scored a few more but it was good to keep a clean sheet.”

Rowe has strengthened his pack by signing former Bristol Rovers, Torquay and Exeter attacker Jake Gosling.

Gosling has moved into the area through work, but he won’t be available for tonight’s League Cup clash at home to Worcester City.

Lye Town and Walsall Wood are also in cup action this evening, both against Division One sides.

Lye head to Cadbury Athletic while Walsall Wood host Uttoxeter Town.