STOKE Poges Saints manager Ross Gibson hopes that his fit-again squad can start to climb the East Berkshire League Premier Division table.

The Saints are second from bottom and without a win this season, but Gibson was encouraged by the 0-0 draw at Singh Sabha Slough on Saturday.

He told the Observer: “The game was quite even but we had the better chances and I would say it was one of our better performances of the season.

“We hit the underside of the bar and post plus missed a few one-on-one chances, so we were a bit more resolute but didn’t take our chances.

“It was the first time we’ve been able to put a strong team out because injured players are back available.

“Eight first team players have been out injured and some of us have reached a certain age now where we can’t recover so quick.

“In the next few weeks we’re looking to push on because a number of injured players have come back and that’s really positive.

“We have seven games left this season and, to be fair, are just a couple of wins away from moving up the table. It’s possible for us to avoid relegation this season.

"Looking at the league table I think we should aim for four wins but when you look at our form that might be quite a tough ask.

The Saints take on unbeaten defending champions Langley at Kedermister Park this Saturday (2pm).

Gibson added: "Langley are unbeaten this season, so I expect a tough game, and hope we can push on after a get a few wins under our belts.

"It our last game of the season where there will be no pressure on us because we are very much the underdogs."

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