Clifton wants Holbeach United to put pressure on rivals with win over Selston

Holbeach United face one of the biggest games of their recent history on Saturday as they visit Uhlsport UCL Premier Division relegation rivals Selston (3pm).

A defeat could see the Tigers fall, in a worst case scenario, 13 points from safety after Wednesday night’s 7-0 home humbling against Sleaford Town with games running out to mount a survival charge.

Boss Danny Clifton saw encouraging signs in last weekend’s 4-1 defeat at Eastwood and is eager not to put too much pressure on the youthful squad ahead of the trip to Nottinghamshire.

“The Selston game is a big one for us and the season as a whole,” admitted Clifton. “I don’t want to go into it too much, as I don’t like putting pressure on the lads.

“We’re a new team and things are always changing. But, from what I saw last week, this team will give us a chance.

“What I will say is that, if we can win on Saturday, it’ll put pressure on both them and Pinchbeck United above us.

“I’m very confident in the ability of the young lads we’ve brought in.

“Technically, they are more than ready for this level of football.

“Obviously, we’re very short on experience here and we’ll make mistakes as a group – that’s just what happens when your team is so young.

“We’ll go there with energy and will be looking to win the game.”

Clifton is unsure what squad he’ll travel with, given that five of Saturday’s squad at Eastwood were unavailable for the Sleaford game.