IT'S CERTAINLY been frustrating to have so many matches postponed recently, but we can't do much about the elements and every other club in the country has been in a similar situation to ourselves.

What we can do is continue to go about our business in the right way in readiness for when the action starts up again.

We have been extremely fortunate in that we can alternate between the gym and Field Turf rather than find ourselves stuck indoors all of the time as has been the case for some clubs. We are lucky to have that option and the Field Turf is really proving its worth to us now as we have been able to get out and do some ball work, which is a massive plus.

The lads here are a good bunch who have really worked hard over the past few weeks to maintain their high fitness levels. Credit must also go to John Whitney whose efforts and dedication is really appreciated by the players, even though they don't tend to show it when he puts them through their paces with no let-up whatsoever!

We are only too aware that the next few months will see us playing twice a week for much of the time. It is a schedule that will test us to the limit but we will make sure that we are prepared for it and ready for the challenge, starting on Saturday with the visit of Brighton & Hove Albion.

They are currently looking to pull themselves away from the lower reaches of the League One table, with Gus Poyet hoping to stamp his authority on the team and get them moving in the right direction. Their last League game saw them win 5-2 at Wycombe, whilst they also have an FA Cup fourth round tie against Aston Villa to look forward to next weekend, so they certainly arrive here in good heart.

As such we are expecting a tough test, but my players are chomping at the bit to get out there and play football. Here's hoping that we are able to start 2010 as we mean to go on with a winning result.

Having been starved of football over the past month or so, I would also like to think that you, our supporters, will return with vigour and determination to get behind the team from the first whistle to the last.

CHRIS HUTCHINGS