HEAD coach Ian Bletcher believes Kidderminster Carolians are not getting carried away by their excellent start to the season in the Midlands Two West (South), as they prepare for the visit of Dunlop on Saturday.

The Marlpool Lane outfit share the top-spot with Old Laurentians and Droitwich Spa after a promising start to the campaign.

Five wins out of seven games is in stark contrast to last season, when KCs struggled to find momentum.

“Things have gone very well but if you look around the club we’re not getting carried away,” said Bletcher.

“Not that we’re on a low but we’re conscious that the season is coming to an important point where the next three or four games will define our season.

“There’s a feeling around the club there is still more to come.”

Meanwhile, KCs will be without the services of influential number eight Layton Wilkinson for Saturday’s home league clash (2.30pm start) as he has been laid low by illness.

Bletcher is planning to draft in captain Rob Delahay as a replacement, with Ben Binnion and Matt Phillips on the flanks.

“Layton Wilkinson has been very important for the team but he misses Saturday because of flu,” added the coach.

“It’s a chance for us to try other players and give them a chance to step up.”

Meanwhile, KCs saw their momentum checked because of a free weekend.

On Saturday, players attended a training session and then helped to spruce up the ground.

Bletcher said: “A break in the season is not always ideal, players are very match focused and it was disappointing that there were fewer than normal at training.

“That said we had a good session on Saturday and it was a chance for the players to do some work around the ground.

“It was a useful exercise because the club is more about the first team.

“We also had a good turnout in training on Tuesday, so we’re looking forward to Dunlop, who will be a very solid Warwickshire side.

“They are well-coached and will be well-drilled and we want to make sure we go into next week’s game at Droitwich with some momentum.”