Are Brakes skidding?

Long-range weather forecasts of a 'barbecue summer' turn out not to apply at the New Windmill Ground

This is the question being posed by one Warwickshire paper after Leamington lost their first three practice matches as they prepare for the challenge of their first season as a reborn club in the Southern Premiership. It would seem to me that it is hardly a disgrace to lose 2-3 at home to Conference outfit Tamworth who are two tiers above the Brakes. They seem to have put out nearly a full strength side and the talented Alex Rodman, who was named Player of the Round by the FA in Leamington's cup run that saw them defeated at Colchester United, returned to torment his former team.

However, the lack of success does enhance the importance of Saturday's home fixture against arch rivals Chavtown, aka Chasetown. Although the snow should have cleared by then, the forecast is for strong winds and heavy rain. Cover at the New Wimdmill Ground is limited to the Sheepside stand (named after the occupants at the adjacent field) and the FA have given the Harbury Lane club until the end of March to provide more covered seating.