ALEX Newby's first half header edged Kendal to a much needed win as they defeated Scarborough Athletic 1-0 in a scrappy encounter at The Pye Motors Stadium on Tuesday night, writes Richard Edmondson.

Town were looking to respond from their defeat to Droylsden at the weekend and gave local player Scott OCallaghan his debut as he came off the bench in the second half, while youngster Sam Davies was also given his opportunity.

The visitors started the game brightly and were almost 1-0 up in the first minute when a fine through ball fell too Niall Flint who blasted the ball into the side netting.

However Kendal opened the scoring in the eighth minute when Newby headed the ball past Max Dearney in the Scarborough goal.

Scarborough almost equalised five minutes later as David Merris unleashed his effort on goal only for Chris Thompson to pull off a fine save.

As the half progressed Kendal could have doubled their advantage when a quick attacking move saw Newby collect a fine through ball from Sam Bailey, only for Newby to fire his effort at the goalkeeper.

With the first half drawing to a close Jamie Forrester saw his shot from outside the penalty box rebound off the post while Thompson pushed Flint's effort on goal for a corner.

The second half was scrappy, as both sides defended well, without creating many openings on goal.

Newby had the best effort for the Mintcakes as he blazed the ball over from close range, while Merris and Flint had shots blocked by the Kendal backline.

With the game drawing to a close, Scarborough were denied an equaliser in the 90th minute as Thompson pushed Callum Robinson's close range effort away for a corner.

Kendal travel to play Ossett Albion on Saturday.