Boss Seb Hayes admits that his in-form Holbeach United side face a “massive challenge” at Newport Pagnell on Saturday (3pm) – but is backing them to deliver.
The Tigers, fourth in the Future Lions UCL Premier Division after their sixth win on the spin last weekend, have come through a tricky start to establish themselves as serious title contenders.
Perennial high-fliers Pagnell find themselves down in 15th spot after a rocky run of their own, but Hayes – whose side won 2-0 at Willen Road last season – isn’t fooled by the league table.
“Pagnell away is the last of what we always felt was a very hard first 11 games,” admitted Hayes. “After this one, we have a good run of games that includes three of the next four league matches being at home.
“Going to Pagnell, at any point of any season, is always a very hard game. They’ve not quite done as well as they’d perhaps like this season, but – by all accounts – they were very good against Deeping Rangers last weekend. Maybe that’ll be the result that kick-starts their season.
“We did the double over them last season, but it was never easy at any point. We’ll go there looking for three points, but a draw would be a great result too.
“You can never write off Pagnell – and, if I know (boss) Darren Lynch, he’ll have them right up for the game.
“It’s a massive challenge for us, but one that we’re up for.”
Should Holbeach get the result they desire at Willen Road, Hayes is hopeful of hunting down early pace-setters Daventry Town in the run-up to the festive period.
Daventry are five points clear at the top after walloping second-placed Pinchbeck United 6-0 last Saturday, but the Tigers boss wants them within range by the time Christmas arrives.
“Daventry have opened up a bit of a gap at the top now,” added Hayes. “I’m not sure how much to read into the size of their win over Pinchbeck United, that score didn’t really bother me.
“We’ve got a good run of games coming up, which will lead us nicely into Christmas.
“My aim would be to reel Daventry in as much as we can and perhaps be within three points of the top by Christmas time.
“Then we’ll see where we’re really at this season – it’s too early to tell at this point.”
Hayes welcomes back striker Josh Ford following his three-game suspension, but defensive duo Tom Smith and Spencer Tinkler are both rated doubtful.
Meanwhile, the Tigers chief is “90 per cent sure” that striker Jack Smith will stay with the club after he held discussions over a possible move to Spalding United.
Holbeach are also in League Knockout action on Wednesday night with a home clash against Division One side Melton Town (7.45pm).
Either Wellingborough Town or St Andrews/Aylestone Park await the winners of the tie.
