Seb Hayes feels that Holbeach United need to win six of their next eight games to put a marker down in the race for Future Lions UCL Premier Division glory.
The Tigers are fifth after seven games, but three defeats have left doubts lingering over their ability to challenge at the top.
That run of fixtures starts with a tough test against a Leicester Nirvana side who have also had a start that is somewhat below their expectations.
Nirvana will arrive at Carter’s Park on Saturday (3pm) in 17th place, but their one win so far was against title favourites Rugby Town.
“Nirvana are always a tough team to face,” said Hayes. “To be honest, Saturday was the first time I’ve looked at the league table.
“I was very surprised to see them down towards the bottom – but these things can happen.
“I never read too much into how a side has started and the table isn’t really that important until you reach the ten-game mark.
“From our point of view, we’ve made no secret of the fact we want to challenge for the title this year.
“Our start has been OK, but we’ve got three defeats that say otherwise.
“What I want to see from the lads now is a run of wins, maybe six from the next eight, which would lay down a marker in the title race.
“The comeback against Cogenhoe (2-2) and win at Rothwell (5-0, see page 36) have given us a bit of momentum and I want us to build on that.”
Holbeach, meanwhile, are braced for the departure of long-serving defender Stacy Cartwright, who is the subject of a seven-day approach from South Holland rivals Pinchbeck United.
