Liskeard Athletic will go into their Boxing Day derby at Dobwalls defending an unbeaten record in the Carlsberg South West Peninsula League.

But the Blues are anticipating one of their hardest tests of the season at Lantoom Park (11 am kick-off) against a Dobwalls side who have found improved form in recent weeks.

Liskeard’s joint manager Martin Hodge told the Cornish Times: ‘We are looking forward to the game which we expect to be a tough encounter.

‘But the lads know it is going to be a hard run-in for the rest of the season with a lot of league games to come, as well as still being in three cup competitions.’

Liskeard are unbeaten in all 13 SWPL division one west games this season. Having won the opening 10 matches, they have drawn their last three against Penzance, Mousehole and Plymouth Marjon.

The Blues have been frustrated in their preparations for Boxing Day, with tomorrow’s home game against Holsworthy postponed because the North Devon side are involved in a rearranged Devon Premier Cup tie against Elmore.

Hodge said: ‘We will be doing something inside before the Dobwalls game because we have not played for a week or two.’

Dobwalls joint manager Simon Westlake said: ‘Liskeard have made several signings to strengthen their starting line-up including Lyle Johnston from St Blazey.

‘We are fully aware of the task in hand and as underdogs in this fixture will hope to provide a good account of ourselves.’

Dobwalls are expected to include new signings, former St Blazey player-manager Stuart Morgan, who will add quality and experience to a young Dobwalls team, and defender Nick Cotton from Plymouth Marjon.

Players returning to the Dobwalls squad are Ryan Howe, Billy Westkake, Kris Gargett and Hayden Baugh.

Dobwalls (from): Toby Chapman, Nick Cotton, Billy Westlake, Martin Hughes, Andy Frost, Tom Scott, Ryan Howe, Xcole Ncube, Aaron Spear, Ray Spear, Stuart Morgan, Sam Ingram, Dan Obrien, Dan Perryman, Kris Gargett, Ryan Snell, Alfie Eccles, Sam Stockdale.