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Still optimistic

26/ 3/2008

DAVE Pace remains hopeful that his Droylsden squad can defy the odds and escape relegation from Blue Square Premier.

Despite beating Halifax Town 2-0 at the Butcher’s Arms on Monday, the Bloods lie 17 points from safety and with an inferior goal difference to their rivals.

Nevertheless, Pace believes his side’s improved performances of late can act as a springboard for the Bloods ahead of a hectic final five weeks which sees them playing 11 games.

He said: "There’s still 33 points to play for which is a hell of a lot. We’ve gone on 10-game unbeaten runs before, so who’s to say we can’t do it again because if we do, we’re out of trouble.

"The backlog of games has come about because our game against Torquay was postponed with them being in the Trophy, as was the case with Aldershot, while Exeter got called off which was the first time in 20 years according to someone down there.

"That’s the way it’s going at the moment but it’s something you have to take on the chin."

Although the Bloods have produced improved performances of late, it has shown the struggle that part-time clubs have when they come up against full-timers.

Consequently, clubs like Droylsden are left having to play catch-up on some of their more illustrious rivals.

Pace said: "There’s a massive difference in the wage structure which is something I’m working as hard as I can to balance by bringing in loan players.

"You can see the difference but I’m just hoping it’s not too late."