AHEAD of this Saturday’s crunch clash against title rivals Chelmsley Town, Droitwich Spa joint-manager Wayne Oliver insists claiming a draw is not a bad result for his side.
The Saltmen currently sit second in the Midland League Division Two table and make the trip to The Pavilion knowing a victory could see them go top – depending on Rostance Edwards’ result against Earlswood Town – while moving five points clear of Chelmsley in the process.
The fixture kick-starts a big fortnight of games for the Saltmen as the following weekend, they entertain league leaders Rostance Edwards at the King George Playing Fields.
Yet Oliver told the Standard he would be more than happy with a point tomorrow.
“It’s a huge game for us and if we win it puts the pressure back on Chelmsley to win their two games in hand they have on us,” he added.
“However if we come away with a point I won’t be disappointed as we will look at it as a point gained rather than two points lost.
“Obviously we will go out there to try and win, and if we do win, it will be a case of reversed roles as it will be Chelmsley doing the chasing.”
The Saltmen go into the huge game on the back of a 3-0 victory over Sutton United in the quarter-finals of the Les James Challenge Cup.
After 90 minutes of football saw the two sides locked at 0-0, it took a hat-trick from leading goalscorer James Lemon to secure the win as his extra-time hat-trick booked his side’s place in the semis where they will meet Alvis Sporting Club.
And for Oliver, the result was just what he wanted.
“We got what we went for which was the win,” he said.
“We did it the hard way but on the balance of things, we should have had the game wrapped up inside 90 minutes.
“But I am pleased with the overall result and the performance from the lads.
“Our superior fitness came through in the end.”
Oliver was also quick to praise the Droitwich faithful who have travelled many miles to watch the Saltmen on their away travels, while also coming out in the masses at home.
“When I first arrived we was only attracting around 10 fans each home game, now we are getting 30 plus coming to an away game,” he added.
“It’s absolutely tremendous for us and we have to keep encouraging fans to turn up.
“They have been phenomenal and when we play at home, their support in the clubhouse has kept this club financially stable.”
The club are also offering free travel to the game and anybody wishing to go should contact the club directly on Twitter or ring 07581 515004 as spaces are limited.
