IT'S the time of year for making resolutions, but there's one habit that John Coleman is not prepared to kick.

The Accrington Stanley manager has grown accustomed to seeing his side go unbeaten in recent months, and he doesn't want that winning feeling to end - even if it will mean Stanley incur a fixture pile-up.

The Reds travel to Conference South strugglers Carshalton tomorrow, and a win there will mean a re-arrangement for their scheduled trip to Aldershot on February 4.

But Coleman is just eager for progress, whatever the cost.

"I don't look at the FA Trophy as a blessing or a curse," he said. "It has to be done, we have to play in cup games and it would be nice to have a run in this competition and win it.

"We will be amongst the favourites to win it now, although we haven't had success in the Trophy in the past.

"But with all the teams, apart from Southport and Scarborough, are having this break from the league this weekend, so maybe it takes a little bit of pressure off us then we can go again next week against Cambridge."

With Gary Roberts and Michael Welch suspended for tomorrow's game after both picked up their fifth bookings of the season in last weekend's win at Canvey Island, Coleman is welcoming in the chance to utilise some of the fringe players in the squad.

"It's a chance for a couple of players to stake a claim on Saturday and I'm hoping they give me a headache for games to come," said Coleman, who knows his side must take nothing for granted if they are to succeed tomorrow, particuarly with memories of their FA Cup exit at the hands of lowly Conference North side Worcester City still fresh in their mind.

"We have to approach the game in a professional manner and we are preparing like we would for a league game by travelling down today," he said.

"The winners tomorrow receive £5,000, and that's not to be sniffed at for a club of our stature.

"I don't believe in going out in any match to make the numbers up."

l STANLEY Ultras are running a supporters' coach to tomorrow's game, which will leave the Crown Inn, Whalley Road, Accrington at 7am.

Seats are still available at a cost of £20. To book, contact 07950 218206 or 07788 716164.