Losing Is Not An Option

Last updated : 22 March 2005 By Stray Shots Team
Not for the first time season, Brown described his team's next outing as a “game we can ill-afford to lose” — a quote which sums up tonight's trip to in-form Burton Albion in a nutshell.

The Shots make the trip to Eton Park on Tuesday night — their seventh game already this month — hoping to bring an end to a run of just two points from a possible nine.

But this is not new territory for the boss, who need only look to the corresponding fixture last season for encouragment.

Almost a year ago to the day, the Shots made a Tuesday night trip up to Eton Park and came away with a 4-1 victory which was crucial in their Play-Off charge.

Brown will be aware, however, that Nigel Clough's side represent dangerous opponents — especially on the back of their 4-2 away win at Leigh RMI on Saturday.

And prior to that win, Clough's side had beaten Play-Off contenders Woking to reach the semi-final of the FA Trophy.

Indeed, it could be said that the Brewers will have one eye on their semi-final with Conference South champions-elect Grays Athletic on April 2, which forced the Shots into this re-arranged fixture.

Brown has few injury concerns ahead of the trip, and welcomes the return of David Lee from suspension.

It could, however, be the last game for Jake Robinson, although as the Mail went to press on Monday, the club were hoping to extend the youngster's loan deal.

For Brown the race for the Play-Offs is entering its final furlong, and with their derby crunch match against fellow contenders Woking looming this weekend, a win at Burton would certainly boost confidence.

“We can't afford to be choosy about where we pick up points, whether it's from clubs like Burton or other teams in around us in the table, he said.

“We need to get all the points from every game, every game is a cup final for every team that's in it.”

With thanks to the Aldershot News.