Perfection is the aim for Avenue after draw

9:59pm Thursday 17th April 2008

Comments (0)   Have your say »

Newcastle Blue Star 0, Bradford Park Avenue 0

With three games left, Avenue have timed their push for the UniBond Division One North title well but only nine points from the remaining fixtures will guarantee it was timed to perfection.

Tonight's goalless draw at Newcastle Blue Star gave them a two-point cushion at the top - another game undefeated but not the three-pointer that would have eased the tension.

Avenue are favourites to win the championship and to return from their trip to basement outfit Woodley Sports on Saturday with a win.

However, there is an edge to the atmosphere around the club.

No-one is taking anything for granted, no-one is as much as muttering the T' word and the players are too respectful of boss Dave Cameron to start planning their close-season holidays.

If they fail to take the title, they will be heading for the lottery of the play-offs.

"I don't just want to win every game, I expect it. I don't do negativity because I'm too upbeat for that," said Cameron.

"I love this game and have spent many years in it, not just because of the enjoyment but because I want to win.

"I love a challenge and I don't think that should change because I'm a manager now instead of a player.

"The frustrations are a bit different - you can't influence things by scoring a goal but you can change games from the dugout. You can pick the right team, get the tactics right and lift the players.

"We shouldn't be negative because we are a good side in very good form, you can't fail to enjoy your football under these circumstances. I can understand the worry from the supporters, the staff and the board of directors.

"That worry, that uncertainly, is healthy. It means people are realistic and don't just expect things to happen. We have a chance to win the league and get automatic promotion but that's all it is, a chance.

"Fingers crossed we will do it, but at the moment that's all we've got, hope.

"No trophy in the cabinet, no medals in the pocket, we have to stay focused and maintain the confidence and self belief."

Cameron will be naming his squad for the journey to Woodley on Saturday morning after checking on the players who were on duty at Newcastle Blue Star.

One definite will be striker Paul Gedman, who was left out of the party that made the trip to the north east.

With so many games in such a short space of time, Gedman has been used sparingly by the boss.

Cameron has had to make changes over recent weeks due to injuries - not least skipper and midfield engine Steve Connors - but his selections have been backed up by the results.