Boston United cannot take basement boys Blyth Spartans lightly - Craig Elliott

Craig Elliott knows Boston United can't take basement boys Blyth Spartans lightly - especially now they have striker JJ O'Donnell in the ranks.

The Pilgrims are looking to end their three-game winless run at Croft Park tonight as they face the National League North's bottom team.

The Spartans have picked up just two five points from 10 matches this season, a measly two points from five home games.

But, like Boston, they will be desperate for three points that could get their campaign back on track.

"It's unforgiving this league. Blyth will be a difficult team," Elliott said.

"You play top, middle or bottom and they're all difficult games.

"We need some confidence in the camp and we need to go there nice and positive. We've had a good talk in the dressing room (after Saturday's 2-0 defeat to Chorley) and we've got to move on."

Blyth's only league victory so far was a 3-0 success at Curzon Ashton on November 7.

Midfielder Simon Heslop, who was part of the Boston squad which reached the play-off final last season, joined Blyth in the summer, while regular Pilgrims tormentor JJ O'Donnell has linked up with the Spartans on loan from Gateshead for the remainder of the season.

O'Donnell scored twice in three meetings between the two sides last season as the Heed won both league contests 3-0 before United got the better of them in the play-off semis, winning 5-3.

"I think he's a really good player. I'm surprised he's gone there to be honest," Elliott said of O'Donnell.

"I knew he was available and a player of that calibre's a great signing for them, just before they play us as well. He was one of the best players for Gateshead last year."

Midfielder Tom Platt could be fit to play tonight, although Elliott has said he will not be rushed back from injury.

Tonight's contest kicks off at 7.45pm.

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