Yates believes Gainsborough Trinity will finish top 10, but admits improved form and consistency will be key

The Blues have struggled to put a run together this season, never going more than four games without a defeat.

And Jamie Yates knows that consistency will be key if Trinity are to reach their stated aim of a top 10 finish.

“We do need to improve our form and be more consistent,” he said.

“We need to get that little bit more consistent, especially away from home – and we are a good side.

“There’s scope to do a little bit better, from my own point of view.

“I think it will come I think it will come if Steve is given time, and if the squad sticks together with maybe one or two additions.”

He also understands the frustration felt by some sections of the club’s fanbase.

“I can see the frustraton, we as a club share that.

“We’re only a couple of victories away from being comfortable top 10.

“This league is very difficult and this season teams have a lot of good players, but I do see that frustration.

“The lads want to put it right as soon as possible.

“We’ve been on an up and down run.

We’ve got another good chance to get back to winning ways on Saturday.”

Despite the up and down nature of their results, Yates fully expects to complete the season in the top half of the National League North table.

“I do think it’s a minimum achievement as a squad.

“Looking at the names on the team sheet, that’s very realistic. We should be kicking on towards the top eight and top six.

“We’ve got the players, the top 10 is in our sights.”

Injuries to key players have hampered the Blues throughout the season, none more so than veteran defender Adam Quinn in Yates’ eyes.

He said: “We’ve been missing Adam Quinn for quite some time now.

“When I played with him all last season and this season he was ever so good.

“His experience is vital to us, his height and everything else.

“The likes of Dom Roma have come in at centre-half and done very well, Stephen Brogan has done well at right-back.”

“But I think once Adam comes back and shores us up, and when we get the likes of Jarman and Newsham back they will strengthen us.”