Last updated 10:20, Friday, 07 March 2008

CONFIDENCE is high in the Reds camp as they prepare to travel to promotion-chasing Stalybridge tomorrow.

Wins have been hard to come by of late but Reds boss Darren Edmondson is certain that their fortunes will change, starting with a team they have already beaten twice this season.

He said: “We have played two and won two against Stalybridge this season, so we know a bit about them.

“Even though we have beaten them twice we know that this is going to be a tough game. Stalybridge are good at home and with their sloped pitch, and our recent form we will need to be at our best.”

Reds will be without skipper Kyle May and midfielder Johnny Wright, who are both suspended for the trip.

This means on-loan defender Dan Kirkup is in line for his full debut.

Edmondson said: “It is a loss to us with Kyle May being out, but as one door closes another opens and it will be down to Dan Kirkup to take his chance.

“He is a big lad, and not many people have the ability he has being so tall.”

Kirkup has been training with Carlisle Utd this week to keep his fitness up.

Edmondson said: “I have no problem with Dan training with Carlisle. It shows that he wants to succeed and by keeping fit that is definitely going to help him.”

After only one win in nine games, Reds need to start winning as they are only three places above the relegation zone.

Edmondson said: “Our form is a worry but the confidence at this club is high. The players believe in themselves, and let’s not forget, this is the same squad who started the season so well. We will turn things around.”