RADCLIFFE Borough's battle against relegation from the UniBond Premier League might look like a lost cause, but manager Andy Johnston is refusing to allow his side to meekly close out the season.
Title-chasing Witton Albion are the visitors to Stainton Park tomorrow (kick-off 3pm) and Johnston reckons it is games like these that will help to finalise his plans for his playing squad next season.
Skipper Simon Kelly, Scott Wilson, Ian Fitzpatrick, Tim Dittmer and Matty O'Neill have signed on the dotted line for next season, but the future for the rest of the Boro squad is up in the air.
"I am still looking for players for next season, and these games are useful to assess things," said Johnston. "We may be able to persuade certain players to stay if we put in some good performances, or we might decide we don't want to keep a player if he isn't performing. Either way, there is still plenty to play for.
"We held Witton for 90 minutes at their place, and were only beaten by a wonder goal. We also have Jamie Miller available for this game when we didn't last time and that will make a difference."
One man who has made a good impression on Johnston is Lee Fitzpatrick, brother of striker Ian. The former Hartlepool midfielder has signed on until the end of the season and Johnston admits he likes what he has seen.
"Lee has really added something to our midfield," enthused Johnston. "He is not afraid of a tackle, and that is something we want from a midfielder. Sometimes we are too nice and its good to mix it up a bit.
"Lee has said he is enjoying it with us and he wants to come back next season and get fitter. Bearing in mind that he has not played for a while, he is dong really well for us."
Wilson will return to the Boro midfield this weekend after his suspension and he will replace Haydn Eames, who is unavailable due to work commitments.
The game will also see a quick return to the Boro for former defender Ian Kearney, who moved to Witton earlier this month for a four-figure fee.
"It will be strange playing against him, but we have to concentrate on the game and try and pick up the three points," added Johnston.
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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 hereComments are closed on this article