The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
Boss Danny Clifton is hoping that Holbeach United will be “competitive” against Heanor Town on Saturday (3pm) as he continues the overhaul of his squad.
The Tigers return to Uhlsport UCL Premier Division North action at Carter’s Park on Saturday, having been without a fixture last weekend – and fans can expect to see a host of new faces.
Eight points adrift at the bottom of the table and ten from safety, Holbeach are still searching for their first competitive win of the season, with Clifton their third different manager.
The boss did see reasons to be positive in two friendly fixtures last week, though. A 5-2 loss at step six side Whittlesey Athletic last Wednesday and Friday night’s 6-2 home win over Warboys Town buoyed Clifton.
Tuesday night’s 3-1 home defeat against Spalding United also gave him the chance to look at new players.
Perhaps the stand-out performer was striker Lewis Baughan, who scored twice at Whittlesey and added a double in the Warboys win.
He also got the only goal for the Tigers against Spalding, making it five goals in a week.
Clifton’s side, which will be packed full of youthful players on Saturday, will need time to gel. But he’s hopeful that they’ll prove to be competitive as they bid to somehow avoid relegation this season.
“It was good to get some of the lads out on the pitch,” said the Tigers boss. “Saying that, I was also frustrated that I couldn’t have a look at everyone.
“Availability issues are a bit of a problem, but I’m hoping to nail down a few of them ahead of the Heanor game.
“If we can get the side out that I have in my head, there’s no reason why we won’t be competitive against Heanor on Saturday.
“It’s been hard going, but the squad is taking shape. Some of the lads, like Lewis Baughan, are really chomping at the bit to get on the pitch this weekend.”
Heanor, who are sitting safely in mid-table, are one of the three sides to drop points against Holbeach this season after drawing the reverse fixture 1-1 back in August.
