DOM Johnson, co-manager at Lostock Gralam, has challenged his players to collect maximum points from their remaining matches this month.

A derby date with Middlewich at Park Stadium this Saturday starts that sequence.

After that, the Grey Lambs visit Egerton.

“If we can win those two we’ll stay in touch with the teams above us in the table,” said Johnson.

“We’ve a good recent record against Middlewich, and it would be nice to keep that run going.

“They’re a side that can score goals, and they’ll be up for it.”

Lostock’s game at Golborne last weekend was postponed, their third successive Saturday without a game.

Instead of taking an afternoon off, Johnson watched the Witches fall 3-2 at home to Daten.

He added: “They’ve brought in a few new players, and are probably where we were at the start of the season in terms of needing time for those lads to gel.

“We’re in a better position than them at the moment, and need to make the most of it.”

Lostock sit sixth in Cheshire League One, four points adrift of FC St Helens in second spot.

They finished fifth at the level below last term, but were promoted to make room for new teams.

It’s an opportunity they have made the most of.

Johnson said: “We’ve focused on making the squad deeper, and now have lads who can do a job in every position.

“It’s true we probably didn’t expect to be where we are, but we’re starting to believe we can challenge for promotion.

“That’s why these next two games are so important.”