THE frosty conditions provided Salisbury City with a free weekend they could have done without on Saturday.

Their home game against Tamworth was postponed, denying the Whites the chance to build on their two previous wins, both away from home.

“The Saturday before Christmas is not renowned for big football crowds, so we weren’t too disappointed in that respect, but the momentum we have gave us cause to look forward to the game,” said manager Tommy Widdrington.

It also meant that Queens Park Rangers loanees Lee Brown and Joe Oastler were unable to play one last game for City, as their maximum 93-day short-term loan spells came to an end.

Widdrington’s former Southampton team-mate Jim Magilton lost his job at Loftus Road last week.

“I have to thank Jim Magilton, (assistant) John Gorman and (reserves manager) Keith Ryan for helping us out,” commented Widdrington.

“Lee and Joe are only 19-years-old and still finding their way in the game but whenever they were called upon, they did well.

“Our resources have been further reduced, but hopefully there will be some good news on that soon.”

Both played some part in the reserves’ impressive 2-1 win at Plymouth Argyle last Tuesday.

“The staff were ribbing Darrell Clarke because he hadn’t won in charge of the reserves until then, but he was ribbing us back after his first win and it was a comfortable 2-1,” said Widdrington.

“I think it’s important that everybody in the squad has the same mentality, and the reserves’ job should be no different to the first team so that they are ready to step in.

“The average age was 20 to 21, so it was no mean feat.”

The first team stay on the road on Boxing Day, with a trip to struggling Forest Green Rovers, before they entertain leaders Oxford United on Monday.

They also face Histon at the Ray Mac on New Year’s Day (all 3pm kick offs).

“Forest Green has been a happy hunting ground for us,” said Widdrington.

“If we win, it distances ourselves from them and means we can look up rather than down the table.

“They are a footballing side like us, so it should be a good game."

Sean Clohessy must serve his one-match ban for an accumulation of five bookings in the next game the Whites play, after the Tamworth match didn't go ahead. Ryan O'Hara faces a late fitness test.