Pitmen boss in play-off hopes

Hednesford manager Phil Starbuck has his sights set firmly on the play-offs as they head for Worksop tomorrow.

Starbuck is in confidennt mood following the Pitmen's 5-2 win at Prescot Cables.

"Not many teams will go to Prescot Cables and win 5-2," said Starbuck.

"We went there and outfought them in their own backyard and if we go to Worksop with the same confidence and perform as we did against Prescot, then we're a match for anybody.

"We're back to winning ways. I'm convinced we can make the plays-offs. That's our aim."

The Pitmen have Mario Pedro rated as a doubt for tomorrow's trip while Steve Palmer is suffering from tendonitis in his Achilles.

Starbuck has confirmed defender Tom Marshall's injury has now been diagnosed as shin splints and he could be out for anywhere between three and six months.