Mike Williamson has called for “clarity and calmness” in Carlisle United’s approach when they head to Newport County.
After back-to-back home games against high-flying opposition, the Blues now take on a side in the bottom half of League Two.
The trip to Rodney Parade this weekend will offer United the chance to make up more ground on a potential rival at the wrong end of League Two.
It will, Williamson says, be a different kind of test to that which the Cumbrians have encountered in consecutive draws with Doncaster Rovers and Crewe Alexandra.
And he said a level of composure will be needed for United to make the most of the game in south Wales.
“They [Newport] are a team that have transitioned as well from a certain way of style of playing to a new one,” he said.
“That will take time no doubt but we've got to go there and make sure that we're as brave as we possibly can be.
“Because [on Saturday against Crewe] we were fractions away from having an unbelievable afternoon and winning a game against a team that's third in the table.
“But we've got to make sure we have the clarity and calmness to go there and still play, and play the way we know we want to.”
United’s preparations for Newport include Williamson’s assessment of Harrison Biggins as the midfielder gets closer to a return from a calf injury.
Jon Mellish is back among the Blues’ options after suspension as Williamson's side aim to get back out of the relegation zone.
One man attracting praise at the moment is skipper Sam Lavelle, who was outstanding in the Crewe draw.
The defender is in good form and Williamson has been quick to praise the former Morecambe and Charlton Athletic man, who was yesterday shortlisted for the PFA League Two November player of the month award.
“He’s a real captain, a top Class A human being and player,” said the United boss.
“The honesty he plays with is the honesty he conducts himself with off the field as well.
“It's a pleasure to work with him and he's just driving as much as he possibly can because it means that much to him.”
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