Gale: We must not let season fizzle out
The Hawks embark on their final Blue Square South away trip of the season determined to maintain their recent improvement.
Just one defeat in their past seven games has seen the club climb away from the relegation zone.
And manager Shaun Gale wants to keep the run going at tomorrow's opponents Bishop's Stortford (3pm).
'We are determined not to let the season fizzle out and this is another game we want to get all three points from,' said Gale.
'Our performances and results of late have been good. Unfortunately it has come too late.
'Bishop's Stortford is never an easy place to go and get points but we showed at Basingstoke that we are prepared to battle away from home.
'You can guarantee as a team we will work our socks off to get the right result.
'It was disappointing not to win on Monday but there were plenty of positives to take from the game.
'It hasn't always happened for us this season but the past few weeks have convinced us that we are moving in the right direction.
'We have the nucleus of a successful side and once the season finishes, a bit of tinkering will be necessary to make the difference.
'Everything we do now is more professional and I will continue to bring to the club the quality of players who will keep that happening.
'We beat Bishop's Stortford 3-0 at our place not so long ago and we were good value for that win.
'They will be out for revenge but we want to go unbeaten for the rest of the season.'
Gale was forced to make changes to his starting line-up on Easter Monday because of injuries but is hoping to have a few players back.
Paul Hinshelwood (ankle) and Stephen Walker (dead leg) are expected to return to the squad and skipper Jamie Collins, who played with his ankle strapped up, should be okay.
Central-defender Gary Elphick remains doubtful with rib problems but Gary Holloway (knee), Charlie Henry (ankle) and Matt Gray (dislocated elbow) are unlikely to play again this season.
The experienced figures of Guy Butters, Jay Smith and Robbie Martin all did well when they came in at Basingstoke and will feature again in Gale's plans.
'Playing 4-3-3 has suited us recently with the personnel we have available,' said Gale.
'We have been hard-hit by injuries all season but Guy Butters (left) looked as though he has never been away when he came back in.
'He calmed everything down at Basingstoke.
'At this stage it is all about making sure we finish the season on a positive note and with a bit of momentum to take through the summer months as we prepare to go again next season.'
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Weather for Portsmouth
Saturday 26 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 13 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 24 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 21 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: South
