In-form Holbeach United have been challenged to take a minimum of 16 points from their next six Future Lions UCL Premier Division games in a bid to force their way into the title race.
That’s the verdict of boss Seb Hayes, who would like to have leaders Daventry Town within striking distance by the time the busy festive period comes around.
The Tigers are currently fourth in the table, some 14 points behind table-topping Daventry with two games in hand. They are also six points off second-placed Pinchbeck United and five shy of Rugby Town in third.
Holbeach’s six-game run begins with Harborough Town’s visit to Carter’s Park on Saturday (3pm), with Hayes hopeful of extending the club’s ten-game unbeaten run in all competitions.
“On current form we have to fancy ourselves on Saturday,” insisted the Tigers chief. “It’s ten games unbeaten and just one goal conceded in our last five league games.
“But we weren’t at our best in the Vase on Saturday – and if we play like that against Harborough, they’ll punish us. They’re a good side.
“Maybe it’ll be better for us to be put under pressure by a stronger side, we weren’t really tested last weekend.
“Overall, we’re a bit further behind Daventry than we’d like at the moment. Last season we closed in on (then leaders) Newport Pagnell by about ten points over this period between now and Christmas.
“That’s something we need to look to emulate this year. We really need a minimum of 16 points from the next six games – although I’d ideally like to win them all.
“We need to close that gap to Daventry. I’d hoped we could maybe get it down to six by Christmas, but they’ve done very well. To get within five points would be great.
“There’s a great atmosphere throughout the club at the moment and hopefully we can continue to build on that.”
Skipper Spencer Tinkler (foot) is expected to miss the weekend clash, but could be fit to return for the UCL Knockout Cup game at Blackstones on Wednesday night (7.45pm). Midfielder Luke Avis remains sidelined, too.
Striker James Tricks should return against Harborough, while defender Jamie Stevens is pushing for more minutes after featuring in the last two squads following a lengthy absence.
