Spalding United have been told that they’ll need to be at their “very best” if they are to beat Pitching In NPL Midlands Division leaders Ilkeston Town on Saturday.
Tulips boss Brett Whaley is expecting a “massive test” in the Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field clash on Saturday (3pm) – but knows that his side are capable of pulling off a win.
The recent victory at Ilkeston’s title rivals Halesowen proves Spalding have the pedigree, but Whaley knows his side will need to be clinical.
“It’s another massive test for us against top of the league,” he said. “But we’ve shown if we apply ourselves the right way we can get results against this type of sides.
“We have had contrasting performances over the past couple of weeks and we know going into the game that we need to be at our very best.
“They’re a really good side who use the ball really well and exploit any lapses in concentration.
“We must make life difficult for them and make sure that, when we get opportunities, we take them.”
Spalding go into the clash with two new signings in the fold.
Striker Tiago Nassunculo, who worked with Whaley at Wisbech Town, came on as a sub in the 3-0 home loss to Carlton last Saturday.
Fellow new recruit Jack Withers, formerly of Holbeach United and Pinchbeck United, is currently unavailable but offers the Tulips another central defensive option.
Ilkeston, meanwhile, have only lost once on the road all season.
