Spalding United boss Matt Easton insists that his Spalding United team will “give it all they’ve got” against high-flying Pontefract Collieries on Saturday.
Easton rates Pontefract, who dispatched the Tulips 3-0 back in November, as the best team he’s seen in Evo-Stik NPL East Division so far this season.
Third in the table ahead of Saturday’s clash at the Sir Halley (3pm), few will be expecting the 18th-placed Tulips to spring a surprise.
But Easton, who was encouraged by what he saw in last weekend’s 2-1 loss at play-off chasing Sheffield FC (see page 37), says his side are up for the challenge.
“Only a stupid mistake cost us last weekend,” bemoaned the Tulips chief. “We were on top in the game against a good Sheffield side and deservedly levelled.
“But we switched off and Sheffield punished us.
“Still, there were plenty of encouraging signs. We need to take that into the Pontefract game on Saturday, as they are the best side we’ve played this season, no question.
“We went there earlier in the season and made it far too easy for them.
“It’ll be tough, but I’ll be telling the lads to give it everything they’ve got on Saturday.
“It’s one of those games that you have to work hard in and hope that you end up with some reward.
“First and foremost, we need to be nice and solid. If we can keep it tight, we’ve got a chance.”
Easton will have to do without speedy winger Jenk Acar, who could face up to a month out. Conor Marshall is also unavailable.
Spalding have lost their last four on the spin, while Pontefract have won seven of their last nine games.
