WHARFEDALE coach Jon Feeley wants the Greens to get off a good start in this Saturday's game at Scunthorpe.

This follows on from the last two games, when Wharfedale failed to score in first half in losses at Sedgley Park and at home to Fylde.

Feeley said: "There is a clear pattern has emerged over the two games, in that we've been slow to get out of the box."

Player availability was a problem for Wharfedale, who have been without a number of players through injury and two players who were away at a wedding.

"Certainly there was some disruption in personnel," said Feeley, who added that indecision by the players contributed to the Greens going 29-0 behind in the first half.

However, Feeley was pleased that Wharfedale's response in the second half.

"We gelled a bit better and outscored them 19-3 in the second half. We were a very different team."

Two players, Johnny Moore and Ben Blackwell, who were making their season debuts for the Greens, put in impressive performances.

"Johnny in his first start for Wharfedale and Ben (who returned from long-term injury) brought a new dynamic to the back line," said Feeley. "They've only had one training session as a centre partnership."

The coach was also impressed with the club's two new signings from Blackburn RUFC, experienced hooker Tom Burtonwood and young flanker Jamie Brookes.

Feeley said the two players, who came on as substitutes in the second half, "made a real difference".

With some players returning for the trip to Scunthorpe this Saturday, Feeley will be looking to "find the right combinations" for this Saturday's team.

Rian Hamilton (hamstring) and Will Smith (shoulder) will face fitness tests in training this week.

Feeley admitted that Scunthorpe, who were promoted to National League Two North this season, are an "unknown commodity" but he will be busy this week watching videos of their home games.

"I understand that they have a strong fortress at home, where they came close to beating Sheffield Tigers, who are a good team."

But Feeley emphasised that the Greens need to "reinforce our game plan".

"We need to start the game from the first half whistle rather than the second half whistle."

The match at Scunthorpe kicks off at 3pm on Saturday.