Ford sticks with his boys for the run-in

The Puritans entertain Shortwood United in Saturday’s Evo-Stik Southern League clash and Ford said there will be no changes in personnel between now and the play-offs.

United still need a few more points to cement their place in the Division One South & West play-offs but it would take a massive dip in form to see them drop out of contention now.

Ford said: “Some people think we need a tough tackler in midfield or an experienced central defender.

“But this squad has been outstanding throughout the season and I don’t envisage there will be more players coming in.

“They have shown great character and deserve to have the opportunity to try to get this club back into the premier division. This group deserve to see it through to the end of the season.”

As for the play-offs, Ford said United’s final position is not the most important matter, getting promotion is.

He said: “We want that second place but I’ve been involved in three play-off situations.

“We finished fifth, played away twice, finished fourth, played away and then at home, and finished second to get two home ties, and we went up each time.

“It can be done any way you like, the first thing you’ve got to do is get there. We’ve just got to make sure we beat Shortwood on Saturday and get nearer to our target.”