MANAGER GJ Singh is very much up for the fight of dragging Barnt Green Spartak away from the Midland League Division Two drop zone ahead of this weekend’s clash at Earlswood Town.
The Lions currently sit second-from-bottom with just one win to their names and Singh told the Standard a fortnight ago that there was no denying his side are fighting to retain their Step Seven status.
And with a trip to mid-table Earlswood on Saturday, Singh is confident his players have the spirit to climb away from danger.
“There’s no doubting we are struggling in the league and we have been quite unlucky because we have lost in games where we have played quite well,” he said.
“We need three points to try and settle our season but I still maintain our performances on the pitch do not reflect our league position.
“It is important we get a few wins under our belt now but that is easier said than done.
“Earlswood have had some mixed results this season but they will provide us with a challenging test so all we can do is give it our best shot.”
Spartak head into the Earlswood clash buoyant from Saturday’s 3-2 victory over Wake Green Amateurs in the Birmingham Vase.
Wake Green had taken a 2-0 lead after 20 minutes but goals from Mark Steele, Chris Bishop and Dominic Strevens ensured it was the Lions who booked their place in the third round to set up a tie at Coventry Alliance outfit Triumph Athletic.
“I was delighted with the result even though the performance on the day was not the best,” said GJ.
“The set up at Wake Green was something we are not used to as there were no barriers or dug-outs.
“We looked well off the pace in the early stages so I made a few tactical changes and the lads showed great character to turn things around.”
After Saturday, Spartak play host to fellow Midland League Division Two outfit Smithswood Firs in the quarter-finals of the Smedley Crooke Memorial Charity Cup.
“Smithswood have been very complimentary towards us after we drew 2-2 with them earlier in the season,” said GJ.
“They seem to think we were one of the best sides they have faced this season even though our results do not suggest that.
“On paper the match is a ‘no-brainer’ but Smithswood are obviously well aware that if we perform well on the day they could be in for a fright.”
