Red-hot Holbeach United are being backed to keep their red-hot run going against Oadby Town this Saturday (home, 3pm).
Six games unbeaten in all competitions – including five wins on the spin – have seen the Tigers progress in the League Cup and FA Vase, while also leaving themselves six points behind Future Lions UCL Premier Division leaders Daventry Town.
The table-toppers face second-placed Pinchbeck United this weekend (see story, right) – so boss Seb Hayes wants to take advantage of that situation with another victory.
Saturday’s opponents Oadby, who are just one place behind the Tigers, were recently unable to fulfil a fixture at Deeping Rangers due to an issue with the Leicestershire and Rutland FA.
But Hayes isn’t expecting a no-show at Carter’s Park.
“We’re preparing to face Oadby,” said the boss. “Whatever has gone on off the pitch, I’m expecting that it’s all sorted now.
“The boys have been brilliant recently, winning five games on the bounce is some turnaround. If you consider where we’ve come from since falling 2-0 down against Cogenhoe United with ten men, it’s pretty impressive.
“We’ve done very well against Oadby in recent meetings and, if the lads turn up and play like we’ve been playing, I’d back them all day long on Saturday.
“With (top two) Daventry and Pinchbeck playing each other, a win will make our position stronger.
“We’re reaching the point in the season were the table will begin to level out and teams will discover where they are.
“The next three or four weeks will be key and the top sides will be finding their form.
“I’m positive that we can keep our eyes on the prize and keep this run going. We’ve been dogged at times, but also played good football at times too.”
Hayes will be boosted by the return of frontman James Tricks at Carter’s Park, but fellow strikerJos Josh Ford serves the final game of his ban.
Defender Jamie Stevens will also play for the Reserves as he works towards making his long-awaited return to the first team.
Despite the squad being down to the bare bones in recent weeks, Hayes hasn’t been rushed into the transfer market – instead opting to put his faith in youth.
Youngsters Reif Clarke and Jay Whyatt have impressed in recent weeks, while Lewie Harker has been a regular at right back for the best part of a year. Hayes feels that is indicative of the club’s vision to give youth a chance.
He added: “The vision we had at the club for the under-18s, Reserves and first team is really coming to fruition now.
“All three sides are doing very well. If you’re good enough, you’re old enough. We’re happy to give youth a chance and always will be.”
Meanwhile, in-form striker Jack Smith has been approached by higher-graded Spalding United.
Boss Hayes has waived the need for the Tulips to make a seven-day approach as he is convinced that Smith will stay at Carter’s Park.
