Thurlow Nunn Premier Division league leaders Gorleston are the visitors to Dellwood Avenue, Felixstowe, this afternoon and are sure to give Kevin O’Donnell’s side a big test.

Thurlow Nunn Premier Division league leaders Gorleston are the visitors to Dellwood Avenue, Felixstowe, this afternoon and are sure to give Kevin O’Donnell’s side a big test.

With former Leiston star Nathan Stone heading the attack – he has already notched five league goals in three games – Gorleston have hit the ground running.

It’s something Felixstowe & Walton’s Rhys Barker is fully aware of.

“It’s going to be a very tough game for us and Gorleston are a very good side,” the experienced Barber said.

“With Nathan Stone in their side they are always going to have a strong forward line. But we have a good side too and it should be a good game.”

The Seasiders won their first league game of the season at FC Clacton on Tuesday night – a 3-1 victory – and Barber feels it is just a matter of time before the squad settles down and starts to move up the table.

Indeed such is the strength of the squad, he feels there is no reason why the team can’t finish in the top four.

“Kevin (O’Donnell) has put together a good squad,” said Barber.

“We look strong but we have a few new players and it will take time for everyone to settle down.

“I think we will be fairly close come the end of the season and I don’t see any reason whey we can’t finish in the top four.”

Barber is right to think the Seasiders have a strong squad.

Not only do they boast him and Bradley Barber, but also former Leiston striker Lee McGlone, as well as last season’s leading League scorer Ben Cranfield.

On paper, at least, Felixstowe & Walton are as good as any side in the Thurlow Nunn Premier and Barber expects boss O’Donnell to make good strides with the squad he has.

“Kevin is a good manager and coach,” Barber added.

“He knows what he wants and the way he wants things to be run. When he took over he consolidated the club and now we are ready to kick on.”

Barber knows O’Donnell well, having been with him at Needham Market during the Danny Laws reign.

Today the Seasiders will be hoping for all three points and inflict on Gorleston their first league defeat of the season.