Latics need to show steel to see off Iron

LEE BARNARD celebrates the goal which earned a point at Swindon. His contribution could be vital during the run-in.

SAFETY is within Athletic’s grasp.

Seven league matches remain and Lee Johnson's men need only match the results of Scunthorpe to ensure the club doesn’t drop.

With two games in hand over their rivals, Athletic have the upper hand. But it still promises to be a very close scrap. These are the prospects for the remaining matches:


Carlisle (H): There have been some goal-laden battles between the two clubs in recent times. Athletic will need to improve markedly on their performance away earlier this season, where insipid effort brought a 3-1 defeat. The Cumbrians aren't 100 per cent safe and will be aiming hard for three points.

Preston (A): The demolition job done on Preston at Boundary Park represents the most thorough home performance of the season. But North End have changed manager since that 3-1 loss and Simon Grayson has steadied the ship. Their fortunes could prove pivotal to Athletic's season: Grayson's men face Scunthorpe on Saturday.

Bury (A): The Shakers won't be officially relegated by the time Athletic roll up, but they will be as good as down should they fail to win against fellow strugglers Hartlepool on Saturday. Athletic could officially put Bury down with a victory.

Yeovil (H): The media circus will be in town for this as father Gary meets son Lee Johnson on the management benches. Yeovil pushing for the play-offs means this will be a crucial fixture for both clubs. Athletic were hammered 4-1 away in December: this is a tough one.

Crawley (H): Athletic ground out a 1-1 draw in the corresponding away fixture, but Athletic will be looking to take all three points against a side whose form is as middling as their league position.

Shrewsbury (A): The recent postponement of this fixture could work in Athletic's favour. The Shrews should be safe from relegation by this meeting in the season's final week. Athletic will be favourites to repeat the 1-0 victory at home earlier this season.

Leyton Orient (A): It could be that Russell Slade's men need to win here to get into the top six. Athletic will hope to have nothing to play for, other than pride and an improved league position. Otherwise this could get rather tense...