Saints boss claims results are only concern in their play-off bid

12:00pm Thursday 18th March 2010

By Simon Mail

St Albans City manager Steve Castle insists results are all that matter in the run-in after his side kept themselves in the hunt for a Blue Square South play-off spot.

The Saints were never at their best against Thurrock but a 1-0 home win after a header from Adam Everitt left them only five points off the top five.

City were second best for much of the match but the manager was just relieved to extend their excellent run of form.

Castle said: "We'll play a lot better and lose. It's just a weird game, football, let's be honest. We got absolutely battered and could have been 3-0 down. But I said to them afterwards it's results at the moment [that matter].

"We have played a hell of a lot better and it's not how I want to play. The pitch isn't brilliant but none of the pitches are going to be at this moment in time. They were very direct and were better at it than us.

"We tried to bring the ball down in the wrong areas and got caught, which put unnecessary pressure on ourselves. I think the best footballing team didn't win but that doesn't always match up."

The Saints were indebted to another outstanding display from veteran shot stopper Paul Bastock. The 39-year-old was forced into an exceptional late save to deny the visitors and ensure City earned their fifth clean sheet in the last seven games.

Castle added: "How many plaudits do you want me to give the lad? He comes down and puts the maximum amount of effort in each week. I'm quite happy for him to pledge himself for much longer. Age is never a concern. I know he's nearly 40 but he's as fit as a flea and his desire is still there. He's performed fantastically and beyond the call of duty."

City are in their best form of the season, with the Thurrock win their fourth in succession. The Saints have eight games remaining and have given themselves a realistic chance of extending their season.

Castle's side travel to relegation-threatened Worcester City on Saturday and the manager is refusing to look beyond their immediate challenge.

"Worcester will be a tough game but we just have to keep taking each as it comes," he said. "If you win all of them then it gets you in the play-offs but that's a bit unrealistic.

"If we can keep it interesting, Dover and Woking have a fair few supporters and have good followings to bring to us so hopefully we'll get more people [at the home game].

"We've just said let's try and keep it as interesting for as long as possible. I have a good honest bunch of lads there and I'm very grateful we had more players on the bench. If we can keep it going the results are giving them the belief.

"From now on in I can't see anyone in the play-offs winning every single game. There is still up to ten games left for some teams and 77 points, if you win them, has got to do it, but let's just take three points and go on to Worcester away."