Tricks set for debut as Spalding United go in search of rare away win at Tividale

Marcus Ebdon admits that nothing but three points will do for Spalding United at Evo-Stik NPL Division One South basement boys Tividale on Saturday (3pm).

The play-off chasing Tulips, who are back in fifth place after beating Kidsgrove Athletic 2-1 on Saturday, are bidding to extend their unbeaten run to five games in the West Midlands.

However, Ebdon is searching for something of a rare commodity – an away victory. Indeed, it’s three months since Spalding picked up their last three-point haul on the road, a 3-0 triumph at Leek Town.

Despite their recent travel sickness, the Tulips chief is confident of maximum points this weekend.

He said: “They are bottom of the table with just 14 points. We’ll never take anybody lightly, but they are bottom for a reason.

“We’ve got to be looking to go there and pick up all three points.

“You can never tell with the struggling sides, they may be bringing in new faces to try and stay up.

“We’ve just got to go there with the right mentality and get the job done.”

Having lost Josh Moreman to Peterborough Sports, Ebdon could hand a debut to new signing James Tricks at Tividale.

The ex-Boston United striker agreed a switch to the Sir Halley on Wednesday evening.

Ebdon’s also positive about Spalding’s play-off hopes, with 14 matches to go.

Currently occupying the last play-off slot, the Tulips are being hunted by a pack of sides that have multiple games in hand on them.

Lincoln United, Leek Town and Stocksbridge Park Steels would all go above Ebdon’s charges if they win their outstanding matches, but the Tulips chief is adamant that he’d rather have the points.

“I’m pleased to be back in the top five,” said the ex-Peterborough United professional. “It’s where we want to be.

“Obviously the teams behind us have games in hand, but there’s no guarantee they’ll win them all. I’m happy with our position and form now we’ve managed to get over a rotten patch of form.

“Fingers crossed, we’ll keep it going from now until the end of the season.”

Spalding have no new injury concerns ahead of the trip to Tividale, who have won just twice all season.

Their last victory came on September 26 – that’s a run of 20 games without a win in all competitions.