GLENN Pennyfather reported that his players have been training as normal in readiness for this Saturday’s scheduled home Blue Square Bet South game against AFC Hornchurch (3pm kick-off), even though the wintry weather conditions mean a pitch inspection has already been organised.

The forecast for Chelmsford from Friday lunchtime to Saturday lunchtime indicates almost continual snowfall and sub-zero temperatures, so an inspection will be necessary on Friday afternoon to assess the condition of the surface. Secretary Alan Brown has a referee in place to look at the pitch, and news will follow.

Boss Glenn explained: “Everybody’s OK to play if the match does get the go ahead. We never miss training due to the weather if we can help it and it was a good session tonight [Thursday] in bitterly cold conditions - the players all had steam coming off of them! If we get to play it’s crucial that we start to build momentum.”

“The focus has always been on our league fortunes and we have to put a string of good results together, whatever game it is. It’s a local derby to potentially look forward to.

"We performed well at their place and got the win, albeit at a good time to play them because they had a lot of injuries. If the game goes ahead, we’re ready.”

AFC Hornchurch are amidst their first season at Conference South level since reforming several years ago.

They’re currently in 17th place, but in an incredibly tight league table where just two points separate the team in 11th from the side in 20th, so a win for the Urchins could put them into the top half.

All news on potential pitch inspections, and the result thereof, will be published at www.chelmsfordcityfc.com, or @OfficialClarets on Twitter)