KENDAL make an enforced change to the front row for Saturday's home match against Blaydon at Mint Bridge (2pm kick-off), with Allen Martindale called up at hooker in place of Duncan Green.

Green is sitting out the RFU's obligatory three-week period for concussion after suffering a head injury, but will be available to return in the squad to travel to Rugby Lions next weekend.

A reshuffle to the three-quarters is also made inevitable in the absence of Phil Graham, whose broken leg marred Kendal's 27-20 victory over Dudley Kingswinford in the last match before the prolonged festive break began.

Versatile Paul Dodds, the most experienced National League player at the club, takes over from Graham at inside centre, having been first choice in every backs' shirt in his time!

Meanwhile, Kendal have contacted Dennis Bibby, who was Martin Armstrong's partner in the back line last season, and he now returns on the replacements' bench.

Bibby, from Hesket Newmarket, has not been seen out for Kendal since suffering a knee injury after he came on as a replacement at Macclesfield in the second match of the season.

Team: S. Mulholland, J. Ladell, M. Armstrong, P. Dodds, L. Ladell, D. Stephens, M. Airey, B. Coxon, A. Martindale, R. Harryman, D.

Preston, M. Capstick, M. Bowman, D. Bowman, A. Bateson.

Replacements: D. Bowles, J.

Nicholson, L. Hayton, D. Bibby. Match sponsor: The Castle Green Hotel, Kendal.

Kendal are still smarting from their a last-kick 28-25 defeat at Blaydon on December 4 when arguably a high number of avoidable penalties led to their demise.

Kendal coach Neil Rollings will no doubt be stressing to his squad that January is a key month to ensure National League safety.

There are fixtures against Rugby (a), New Brighton (h) and Bedford Athletic (a) - like Blaydon all clubs lying below Kendal in the table at present.