Baffins must cut out '˜naive' errors to keep pace with top two

The third-placed side need to get on track again in the race for Wessex League division one title success.

The top two teams are looking strong and Baffins have to keep pace.

They host Tadley Calleva at the Kendall Stadium tonight (7.45pm).

A defeat at Hamble Club and a home draw against Christchurch dented Baffin’s promotion ambitions.

Bell now accepts a win is needed to consolidate their position ahead of the chasing pack.

He is hoping some recent mistakes can be put to bed and Baffins can get back on a good winning run.

He said: ‘We have been a bit naive in recent games, particularly against Christchurch.

‘After coming from behind to lead 2-1 we ended up having to settle for a draw.

‘The team has got to learn quickly how to shut games out.

‘We need to get back on a winning run to keep chasing the top two.

‘Half the season has gone and our mid-term report has to be that we have done okay.

‘It is our first season in Wessex League football and if at the start of the season people had said we would be where we are at this stage we would have taken it.’

Defender Ashton Leigh has signed for Horndean in a bid to play at a higher level.

He was joint-signed with Salisbury where he wasn’t getting many games.

The home side are also without Josh Maddison, who has a knee injury, and Ollie Watts, who starts a two-match suspension.

Bell is boosted by the return of midfielder Jack Eves, who had been out due to work commitments.

Blu Boam also came through the Christchurch game with no ill effects following his three-week absence after suffering a rib injury.

Baffins need to be on their game tonight because Tadley are dangerous opposition.

‘Tadley are fifth and won’t be easy opponents,’ said Bell.

‘It is another tough test but hopefully the fans will turn out and get behind the team again.

‘The support has been fantastic and we have been getting good crowds.

‘At the start of the season attracting fans was something that we worried about but it has been good.

‘It helps us stand on our own two feet.

‘We are very much still a work in progress and are still developing the club both on and off the pitch.’

– KEVIN RICKETTS