STEVE Lloyd has warned his Barnton players that their work is not yet done as they seek to collect enough points to avoid being relegated.
The Villagers have played only twice in the past five weeks, and resume a bid to secure their spot in the North West Counties League’s top-flight when Abbey Hey visit tomorrow, kick off 3pm.
It is the first in a run of three successive home games.
“We’re not looking too far ahead,” said Lloyd.
“For us, the most important match is the next one. That’s where our compete focus is.
“I’ll only relax when we’re mathematically certain of not going down.
“Until that moment comes, we’re in a battle to beat the drop.”
Barnton did not win either of the league games they played last month, following a narrow 1-0 defeat at promotion favourites Atherton Collieries with a goalless stalemate against Squires Gate.
They start this Saturday’s contest 17 points clear of third-bottom Nelson, who have four games in hand on the men from Townfield Lane.
Lloyd said: “We can’t allow thoughts to creep in that we’re clear of danger, because we’re not.
“However we do have control of our destiny, and we’ll work hard to keep it that way if we can.”
Abbey Hey sit 10th in the table before kick off after a mixed start to 2017.
They conceded late in a 2-2 draw with West Didsbury last time out, which followed a 3-0 defeat against Congleton.
Barnton led twice in the return game back in September, only for Nico Collins to score a decisive goal for Luke Gibson’s men.
Lloyd will again be without wide men Jonny Jones and Josh Crofts, who both have a knee injury.
However newcomer Patrick Hamid hopes to finally make his debut after switching from Cammell Laird.
This weekend sees us welcome @AbbeyHeyFC to the @HHNorthwich stadium. KO is 3pm, gates open at 2pm #SupportTheVillagers pic.twitter.com/ibPIRMMOqg
— Barnton FC (@barntonfc) February 28, 2017
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here