Smith: positive mindset vital

KOREY Smith has called for unity as Athletic attempt to get out of trouble.

Crewe promises to be a different challenge to that presented in the last two fixtures, when Preston and Rotherham arrived at Boundary Park armed with rock-solid line-ups bolstered further by the confidence of excellent winning runs.

If Athletic are to beat Crewe, Smith argues, the team needs travelling supporters to be in similar voice as at Tranmere: “It’s a very important game and we have to go there in a positive frame of mind to get the result,” said the midfield man.

“Fans are frustrated and we are too. It isn’t a lack of effort. Things aren’t dropping for us; but it really helps when supporters stay on our side. Keeping spirits up really has an effect on the pitch.”

After tomorrow, Athletic are next in action against Crawley at home on March 22. Three days later they travel south to play Leyton Orient, followed by a Boundary Park clash with Brentford on March 29.

The last two of those games pit Athletic against two of the division’s current top three. Smith says his side can take encouragement from both previous meetings against those clubs.

“We played Orient at home and drew 1-1,” Smith said. “When we played Brentford away, they scored the only goal in the 93rd minute. We have to take confidence from that.”

Smith’s only previous brush with relegation was with his first club Norwich five years ago.

Smith emphasised that with nearly a quarter of season still to be played, time is on Athletic’s side.