After Saturday’s impressive win at Barrow, Boro returned to action at Kettering tonight and were beaten for the 4th time in 7 games. Boro remain in 20th position, just above the relegation zone, but 8 points off the play-off places. Ronnie Henry came back into the side at right-back replacing Eddie Anaclet in what was the only change from the 11 that started at Holker Street. With Iyseden Christie moving to Kettering on loan, new signing Ed Upson moved onto the bench. Kettering gave a start to Craig Westcarr on the left wing against his “former” club.

The home team began the stronger and were soon in front after 15 minutes when Chris Beardsley turned and shot into the far corner past Day. Boro again had started poorly and Kettering looked dangerous going forward at every opportunity. Once the Poppies had gone 1-0 up, Boro began to get back into the game. Daryl McMahon had a free-kick which looked to be heading in until Lee Harper tipped it round for a corner. Boro though couldn’t make the breakthrough, while at the other end Chris Day had to concentrate as Ronnie Henry nearly scored an own goal before Craig Westcarr had an attempt on goal. They went in at half-time 1-0 down.

Kettering were controlling the midfield well and looked very organised at the back. It’s no wonder that they have only conceded 4 goals in their first 7 games. Boro looked “toothless” up front and Steve Morison still looks out of sorts since he returned from suspension. Anthony Thomas didn’t have the greatest of evenings, but it didn’t help that he is being played out of position. I think he should be given a game up front with Morison or Willock to see how he gets on. It worked in pre-season so it could work against Burton or Altrincham.

Boylan came on to replace Willock who had a quiet night and Thomas, who came on for Mills early in the the game, was replaced by Ed Upson as Boro looked to find an equaliser. Kettering were soaking up the pressure and looking to hit Boro on the counter. They nearly added a second with Westcarr firing over the bar. Boro put on a bit of pressure in injury time, but never really looked scoring. A disappointing evening after a good result on Saturday. Next up is the visit of Burton Albion on Saturday who again look difficult to beat this season and beat Wrexham tonight 1-0 at the Racecourse Ground.