Back in early November Director of Rugby Steve Whitehead was left infuriated by Kendal’s second-half performance at Broughton Park, but that seems a long time ago now.

Fast-forward to the present day and the Black and Ambers are in prime form, with six wins under their belt from eight matches.

And having now reached fourth in the League North One West table, Whitehead has set his sights on further progress and chasing down third-placed Widnes.

“When I spoke before the season in terms of aspirations, I guarded against saying the objective was to win the league which is banded about sometimes,” he said.

“If those sorts of goals are set, the first time there is a fall confidence and belief seems to wander so I tend to go from game to game and build on the last one.

“Nevertheless, our aim was and remains to attempt to win every game both in terms of personal battles and the team.

“I hinted at the start of the campaign we were aiming for the top four and above. We’ve got there and have consolidated the position by moving a few points clear of fifth.

“But there is a long way to go with some good sides to play so it’s by no means a foregone conclusion and we have to work hard for the remainder of the season.

“We’re looking to kick on and hunt down third place.”

Kendal’s latest victory came on Saturday against Vale of Lune at Mint Bridge, with Whitehead more than satisfied with a bonus point win.

“The conditions were absolutely atrocious and I have a lot of respect for Vale of Lune, they could have opted not to play as in theory it would play into our hands more,” he added.

“But they took the decision to play and in those conditions it is irrelevant where your strengths lie, implementing them is very difficult.

“And even though one side is more powerful, it is hard to gain any traction under foot so to score four tries and get the bonus point was excellent.

“We started well and maintained pressure, not coming under much ourselves aside from one five-ten minute spell.”