Spalding United boss Pat Rayment reckons his side are facing one of the top two teams in the league tonight (Tuesday).
The Tulips welcome second-placed Shaw Lane Aquaforce to the Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field in what is perhaps the game of the night in Evo-Stik League First Division South (7.45pm).
Widely considered one of the title favourites themselves, Spalding have fallen to eighth in the table after Saturday’s disappointing 3-1 defeat at Chasetown.
Rayment is demanding a performance from his Tulips tonight, but has warned that it could be like “The Alamo” if they produce another tepid display like on Saturday.
He said: “My players have to wake up and smell the coffee – and quickly.
“We’re up against a Shaw Lane side that, for me, are one of only two genuine title contenders alongside Stafford Rangers.
“People will say that we are, but they obviously haven’t seen us play lately.
“I’ll tell you now; if we play like we did on Saturday, it’ll be a long night. They’ll come here and attack, it could be like The Alamo.
“I’ve told the players to go away and have a long look at themselves. I’m wanting – no demanding – a performance from them.”
Spalding must do without injured strike duo Tom Waumsley and Jake Newman, while on-loan Michael Emery will again play in goal with Michael Duggan injured.
Shaw Lane are unbeaten in all five of their games in October so far, but did draw 0-0 at home to Coalville Town last time out.
Spalding, meanwhile, have lost three of their last five in all competitions.
Young guns Jonny Lockie, Declan Earth and Levi Butland could all be in the squad for the Tulips, with Rayment admitting that he’s been frustrated in his bid to bring fresh faces to the club since allowing Michael Frew, Adam Millson, Nialle Rodney and Ross Watson to leave.
Follow @Andrew_Clucas on Twitter for live updates from the match.
