I am a jinx! I called for the good form to continue last week and look what happened! It was a shockingly poor display against Bognor in a game we could (should?) have won with ease. Bognor are struggling in the Blue Square south and although we made them look good, they passed the ball well and battled hard – exactly what they need to stay up.

That display, in a cup game nonetheless, was followed by an equally disappointing result at home to Northwich Victoria who, before the game, were the only team below us. It seems as if they battled harder, were quicker to the ball and won the second ball, too. With the recent good form particularly at home, I hope we can get back on track with two good results in the up coming cup games.

Wick is certainly no massive contest for us. The Sussex Senior Cup cannot be a priority but if we can get Lyons, Fenelon, Cox etc. a few chances, a goal or two then it will certainly help. Wick won’t be a pushover, our recent encounters show that even though last time out we won 5-0. The year before we went 80+ minutes before scoring. Hang on, late goals, 0-0 at 80 minutes, now where does that sound familiar.

Saturday then takes us up to Leiston for an FA Cup 4th Qualifying game, one we cannot afford (and I mean afford literally!) to lose. There are massive improvements needed at the Pan and we need the prize money the FA Cup offers to stand any chance of getting there. Leiston may be one of (if not the) lowest ranked teams left in the cup, but they will not be a walkover game. They are banging the goals in in their league and aren't conceding many. If we are to secure the win we will need all players on top of their game and then who knows, Leeds United away in the first round. It won't be an easy job sorting the coaches for that!!

No one said this season was going to be easy and clearly no one was wrong!! I'd urge all Rooks fans to stick with it. Martin Elliot and Co. made some difficult decisions in the summer, they've been done to death, but they are fans of the club and wouldn't have done it for any other reason than they thought it was the best for the club.

Well, Wick Wednesday then Leiston. The week that may shape our season? Without any more added pressure, I think so.