The next eight games look set to define Spalding United’s season.
That’s the verdict of boss Chris Rawlinson, who is hoping to see his side kick-on and begin their challenge for an Evo-Stik NPL First Division South play-off position.
That run gets under way with a home game against struggling Sheffield FC on Saturday (3pm), with the 11th-placed Tulips just three points off third position.
The Tulips should feel refreshed going into that game, having enjoyed a rare weekend off – while Rawlinson took the chance to run the rule over Sheffield, who were beaten 3-0 by Frickley in the FA Trophy.
The Spalding supremo feels now is the time for his side to kick on and wants to see a reaction to the back-to-back defeats they’ve suffered against Market Drayton Town and Basford United.
“Hopefully the lads took the chance to recharge and they are all refreshed for Sheffield,” said Rawlinson. “It’s the start of an eight-game run that is huge for us.
“Of our 12 games so far, nine have been against top half teams. We’ve now got fixtures against those below us, so we need to cash in if we can.
“Obviously we’ve got no divine right to beat the lower sides, but this run will dictate how our season goes.
“Are we going to kick on and get in that play-off mix? Or will we fall away and end up doing something different? That is where we find ourselves.
“It’s time that we pushed on really.”
Spalding will take on Sheffield FC without Coalville Town loanees Devante Reittie and Bradley Maslen-Jones, whose loan periods with the club have expired.
Doncaster Rovers work experience talent Jacob Fletcher has also returned to his parent club – and has already featured twice for the League One club.
And, with top scorer Gary King (unavailable) and Jamie McGhee (dislocated thumb) both missing too, Rawlinson has a smaller squad to pick from.
He added: “I’m not overly concerned, I believe in the 14 we have here.
“We have a talented under-21 side, so a few of them may help us out.
“Devante hadn’t been involved much and Bradley has been in and out.
“Jacob came in and did well, but I’m delighted to see him getting game time with Doncaster. I’d like to think we aided his development in some way.
“With Gary out, there’s an opportunity for somebody to shine up front against Sheffield.”
- Spalding United’s under-21 side moved to the top of the Lincs FA under-21 Development South League with an 8-1 win at Newark Town under-21s.
The goals came from Millington (2), Chipamaunga (2), Lockie, Neil, Dykes and Walker.
