Robinson backs new look side to beat drop

Ian Robinson believes Rainworth Miners Welfare can and will pull clear of the EVO-STIK Northern Premier League's drop zone, writes Gordon Foster.

The Wrens lost 3-1 at home to Stafford Rangers on Saturday but Robinson and joint manager John Knapper insist the scoreline flattered the promotion-chasing former Conference outfit.

According to Robinson, pictured, the pair also believe they now have a squad in place which is well capable of pulling clear of danger after some hectic transfer activity at the First Division South club in the last few weeks.

Robinson also reckons their fourth from bottom side were unlucky at the weekend against Rangers. Leading 1-0 after the break thanks to Dean Freeman's ninth minute goal, they missed out on doubling their advantage when Romello Nangle's second half effort come back off the post.

Robinson said: "Goals change matches and had that gone in we would probably have taken something from the game. But we gave it a good go against a very good side. They put in another pleasing performance despite the result, and for 65 minutes we were more than a match for them.

"What we have here is a lot of youth, which gives us the legs and the energy, but on the other hand their lack of experience leaves them a little bit naive at times. That can be worked on in coaching.

"We've got experience in the side too, down the spine, with Dan White, Tommy Hannigan, Emeka Nwadike and Romaine Graham so after being busy recruiting new players in the past few weeks, I believe we now have a squad which is pretty much how it will be for the remainder of the season, give or take an odd one or two to come."

Ahead of Saturday's trip to fifth-placed Spalding United and a must-win trip to Market Drayton Town the following weekend, Robinson added: "It's nice to be in a position at last where we aren't having to spend every day of the week hunting players.

"Our last five performances have all been good, we haven't always had the rub of the green in some, but we are a threat, we have pace and power, and there are goals in us. So it's pleasing to see that we are moving forward."

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