Think positive

ROBBIE SIMPSON . . . players lacking confidence in both penalty boxes.

Robbie’s agenda demands so much more than survival
AVOIDING relegation by seeing off Wycombe tomorrow is only the first step in a journey Robbie Simpson intends to embark upon, along with his Athletic team-mates.

The forward accepts the importance of the Adams Park clash. It is a game Athletic, who haven't scored or won since Chris Taylor's strike claimed three points against Bournemouth three weeks ago, cannot afford to lose.

If they do, the gap between the relegation-haunted Chairboys and Paul Dickov's side is instantly reduced to three points.

Even though Wycombe then have by far the hardest run-in, to be biting fingernails over a relegation possibility at this stage of the season was not in the plan when Simpson agreed a permanent deal with the club earlier this season.

The former Huddersfield man, though, still reckons the club should be aiming for an upward swing in the standings.

"Wycombe is a massive game now," said the 27-year-old. They are on a good run, other than the other day at Chesterfield, and are fighting to stay in the division.

“If we win, we can move up a few places in the table.”

Simpson, stuck on seven for the season at present, reckons it is belief that is currently missing, rather than ability.

"It is hard to put your finger on it. We are obviously lacking a bit of confidence. That is what wins you games and it is where we are lacking “