Eight cup finals is how Gavin Macpherson describes the run-in to the season, starting with Saturday’s clash with title-chasing Truro who need the points for entirely different reasons.

Tuesday’s win over Hampton and Richmond may have been a huge step in our survival bid but Gavin has stressed the importance of staying ahead of the game.

“The fact that we are five points ahead of the two teams below us can quickly be eradicated, given they both have a game in hand,” said Gav who is nevertheless pleased about how we have responded since the turn of the year, the four straight defeats notwithstanding.

“You have to acknowledge that in some people’s minds around other clubs, the narrative was that we were dead and buried at Christmas. I took no notice of the stuff on social media and I dare say, none of our supporters did either.”

“Character is an often used cliché in football but when you have that, there’s more than a fighting chance.”

Gavin acknowledges that getting anything against high-flying Truro will be a bonus. “We know what a good side they are. Everyone is focussed on the so-called bigger clubs but I can tell you Truro are in with a terrific chance. We will pay them due respect. They are very potent up front but in patches we did well at their place.”

Ideally the hope is by the time St Albans visit us next month, we will have already have enough points. “That would be great but in all probability it will go down to the wire,” said Gavin who concedes our inferior goal difference needs to be constantly monitored given it could be crucial.

“It’s an important factor and while a draw against Truro may be perceived as good result, we need to keep chalking off wins to make sure goal difference doesn’t ultimately prove the clincher.”

Meantime, we wish striker Jake Hutchinson all the very best as he returns to former club Hitchin Town. “Sometimes things don’t quite work out how you want it to and you have to do what’s best both for the player and the club,” said Gav.

AW