No place to Hyde in survival fight
BURSCOUGH’S poor run of form continued as they suffered defeat on Saturday against Hyde United.
The Linnets are at the bottom of the table and are in need of a rapid turnaround if they are to avoid relegation this season.
Despite some slight improvements under Keith McCann and Simon Hardman, Burscough have still not been picking up victories and they suffered another 2-0 loss at the weekend.
With Tuesday’s game against Glossop North postponed, Burscough will have to wait until this weekend to bounce back.
The club’s press officer Ross Chandley believes inconsistency is to blame for their position in the league table but he hopes the return of skipper Anthony Shinks can make an impact.
“It’s the same kind of story each week to be honest,” said Chandley.
“They are really struggling to find any form of real consistency at the moment in an ever-changing squad.
“Captain Anthony Shinks has been side-lined for a few weeks now and has been on the bench for the past three games but isn’t quite match fit.
“I think he could be the missing piece in the puzzle to help gather some momentum for Burscough going into the final stages of a relegation scrap.
“It’s his off-the-ball tenacity which the team are really missing. Also his communication and organisational skills are paramount in any game and he provides that.”
With Burscough on the end of several defeats this season, it’s easy to feel sorry for goalkeeper Richie Mottram but Chandley believes the Burscough star was a stand-out performer this week.
Chandley also believes the Linnets have still been producing good performances but a lack of victories is taking its toll on the mentality of the players.
“It’s difficult to pick out stand-out players on the back of several losses but ironically, it’s goalkeeper Richie Mottram who has stood out,” said Chandley.
“He has made several stand-out performances in recent weeks and despite losing at the weekend he was once again one of the better players.
“The rest of the squad haven’t performed badly, they just don’t seem to have luck on their side.
“Nothing seems to fall correctly for them and they appear to miss that cutting edge when on the attack.
“They create chances but lack conviction which is probably down to confidence.”
Burscough return to action on Saturday when they take on Mossley and it’s crucial they pick up three points as time is running out to avoid the drop.