KENDAL Town came away with a triumphant against Caton United - and they were even joined on the field by new manager Chris Humphrey.

The Mintcakes won 12 goal thriller against North Lancashire League side Caton, running out 7-5 winners in their second pre-season friendly.

For the first time since taking the reigns, former Jamaican international Humphrey took to the field himself in his player-manager role.

The first half of the game saw Kendal stick five past Caton, to the shock of their opponents. Emil Jaaskelainen, who was instrumental in Kendal’s previous weekend win, continued his form by scoring twice in the first half.

Former Preston and Motherwell winger Humphrey added a goal of his own in the first period, before J’nai Butterfield Steed, and Gregg McCaragher also found the net.

It turned out to be a strange pre-season encounter, with Caton, so resoundingly beaten in the first half, coming back to notch five goals and level the scores.

Rob Wilson scored four of United's goals, before the impressive Jaaskelainen completed his hat-trick to put his side back in front, with Alex Parr heading in Kendal's seventh.

Humphrey, who took the reigns just a handful of weeks ago, admitted he has been impressed with what his new side have shown him so far.

He said: "It was a great game, the first half especially. It was really nice to see the lads enjoying themselves and expressing themselves as we got going.

“Second game back, they enjoyed it.

“I am really impressed with what I’m seeing."

The new Town boss also heaped praised on striker Jaaskelainen, after his hat-trick followed an impressive display in their victory over Bursough the previous week.

He also singled out his midfield duo and Jack Rossi for special praise.

The Kendal boss added: "Emil came back flying, and its shows what a bit of confidence can do. He’s enjoyed the training and he’s bringing the results.

“It’s amazing to see. He’s doing exactly what we want him to and he’s over-delivering. He’s a great goal scorer.

“It’s the best feeling knowing my strikers are on top form.

“This was my first game in four months, so it was good to get the cobwebs off and have a run around.

“My two centre midfielders, Greg and Matty are working really hard. I’m really impressed with them.

“The players need game time and that’s what they’re getting.

“Young Jack Rossi had a fantastic game this weekend as did Lewis Wainwright as well. I am very impressed with both of them.”

“I’ve got a really great team with me here and they all know it."

Kendal will travel to Penrith this coming weekend, giving Humphrey the chance to take a further look at his new side, ahead of a string of further friendlies before the season begins.