TIVIDALE boss Dave King says his side are capable of handing league leaders Wolverhampton Sporting their first defeat of the season.

Third-placed Dale were due to welcome Ellesmere Rangers to The Grove last night before heading for a clash with the West Midlands Premier League pacesetters this Saturday.

Sporting sit top of the pile after winning their first nine of the campaign.

However, Tivi are full of confidence themselves after last Saturday's 4-2 victory over Wellington.

A hat-trick from Joe Lawley and a Nathan Jones strike secured the win.

King said: "We didn't start well against Wellington but got back in the game before half time and had the moments of quality to win it.

"It was a bit of a Jekyll and Hyde performance from us. At time we were poor but at times we were very, very good.

"We're happy to get the win but will now have to be at our best for two very tough games against Ellesmere and Wolverhampton Sporting.

"You only have to look at Sporting's results already this season to know how strong they are. I definitely think we have it in our locker to go there and cause an upset, but we will have to be at our very best.

"The players are looking forward to the game and are determined to establish themselves as a top side in this league. This game will be a good test towards that aim."

Liam Wilkinson is still a few weeks away with an ankle injury but Tivi were boosted this week with the news that forward Tyree Clarke turned down an approach from Lye Town to stay at Packwood Road.

However, Nathan Jones is still considering a switch to Team Dudley after a seven-day approach came in from the Division One leaders.