Blues boss Glen Golby expects to be tested by Hamlets more than their league position suggests

Barking’s joint player/manager Glen Golby is concerned the inconsistent form of Tower Hamlets could lead to his squad heading into their Essex Senior League clash on Saturday thinking the game is already won.

While the Blues have mostly been sweeping all before them this term, Hamlets have long found themselves positioned near the foot of the table, despite taking points off the likes of Clapton, Takeley and Basildon United this season.

Golby hopes Barking are not the latest team added to that list this season, and has warned his players to turn up in the right frame of mind if they want to triumph come the weekend.

“A lot of teams at the bottom of the table like Tower Hamlets seem to be a bit up-and-down in terms of their form,” he said.

“It has been the kind of game in the past where we would slip up because one or two players might have thought it would be easy for us.

“Tower Hamlets can be a test for anyone in this league on their day, but hopefully they are off of it on Saturday and we can take full advantage.”

Barking were not in action at the weekend, but saw their title hopes boosted by their rivals dropping points as Clapton and Southend Manor suffered surprise defeats, while FC Romania were held to a draw by Sporting Bengal United.

Those results left the Blues sitting pretty at the top of the table, but Golby knows his side must continue to take another stride towards the title with every passing week.

“Between now and the end of the season, of course we want good displays from the squad, but we know that the points are more important,” he added.

“If we play poorly, but still take all three points, then I am sure Steve (Willis) and I would take that at this stage.”

It also saw the points needed by Barking to clinch the title fall to 20 points, but Golby insists there is still some way to go.

“The boys are well aware that the jobs are not done and Steve and I will drill that into them in the coming weeks,” said the Blues manager.

“We do know we’re in a good place, though, and we know that the title is now ours to throw away.”