Workington Reds are coronavirus-free for the first time in almost a month, ahead of their County Cup quarter-final tie at Carlisle City.
At its worst, there were five players isolating but Workington have been able to continue their good run and top the latest form table.
However, manager Chris Willcock knows now he will be without record goalscorer Scott Allison after his appointment with the surgeon who operated on his troublesome shoulder. It could be up to ten weeks before Allison is ready for a match return.
There’s also a concern over fellow forward Steven Rigg who had to pull out of Saturday’s game with Glossop during the warm-up.
Rigg was complaining of chest discomfort and back pain and was taken to hospital for an X-ray examination.
Although no heart or lung problems were detected he was asked to go back for more tests to ascertain the cause of his discomfort.
Willcock will make a late team choice for the City game with several members of the development squad likely to be included, along with players who have been short of recent game time in the NPL West.
Saturday’s 5-1 home win over Glossop, and Marine’s postponement, meant Reds closed to within a point of the leaders, although from a game more.
However, on the latest form table – taken over the last six games – Reds lead the way with 16 points and a goal difference of plus 13.
Marine are only seventh and have taken 12 points from the last half dozen games with a goal difference of plus two.
Warrington Rylands, third in the actual table, are second on form with 15 points and plus 12 in goals while Leek Town are also on 15 points and plus 11 goals.
Reds visit 1874 Northwich on Saturday and the hosts are ninth in the form table with ten points out of a possible 18 and are plus five on goals.
