Non-league previews: Penn pleased to see Halesowen "in the mix" after impressive start to campaign

The Yeltz have enjoyed a promising campaign so far, recording 10 wins from their 18 league matches, and amassing 33 points. 

However, Penn's side tasted defeat on Tuesday - beaten 1-0 by Royston Town - to end an impressive six-game unbeaten run in the league. Ben Weyman's 89th-minute goal inflicted the loss on Halesowen who lost Ryan Wynter to a red card in the 63rd-minute.

Despite the narrow defeat, Halesowen sit second in the division - three points adrift of leaders Kettering Town. 

"Whoever finishes above Kettering will win the league and at the moment we are in the mix," said Penn. "It is a really busy period, but when you have lost for the first time in a while, you just want to get back out there and back on the train, and that is what we are thinking of. 

"With the right mix and blend, on and off the pitch, the right structure gives you a great chance. We have given ourselves an opportunity halfway through the season to be in the mix and that is where we are looking to be.

"We will go into Saturday with Kieren Donnelly back from suspension and Ryan Wynter doesn't serve a suspension until the week after. We will be looking to bounce back straight away for momentum and confidence. 

"The game against Royston wasn't a bad performance whatsoever. I said to the lads after, it's not even a blip, these are just things you have to deal with in a long season."

After the red card on Tuesday and other suspensions in recent weeks, the Yeltz boss is hoping to keep as much of his squad available as possible. 

Penn added: "I think every manager wants to instil a winning mentality but you have to be realistic as well. First and foremost you have to build a squad that is capable of winning games, and I think we have done that.

"It's about keeping everyone fit and available, suspensions and injuries don't help.

"I believe when we are at full health we are a match for anybody and that is what we have proved in the last few weeks."

Meanwhile, play-off-chasing Stourbridge visit Leiston looking to extend their unbeaten run to five league games. Liam McDonald's side sit seventh in the standings, one point from the play-off places. 

Kidderminster Harriers return to National League North action with a trip to Radcliffe. Harriers beat Kevin Phillips’ AFC Fylde on penalties in the FA Trophy last weekend and sit five points adrift of league leaders Curzon Ashton.

And basement boys Rushall Olympic, who are eight points from safety, host Scarborough Athletic after they were thumped 7-0 by South Shields in midweek.

Coach Richard Sneekes remains in charge of the side after the club parted ways with Adam Stevens on December 1.