PERSHORE Town will be challenged to show how far they have progressed when they face the team which sent them to the lowest point of the season.
The Plums were walloped 11-0 at Wellington on a day to forget in September in one of the final matches under boss Paul Harris.
They meet again on Saturday with Les Jones’ hosts Pershore determined to build on last weekend’s crucial 4-3 win against Pegasus Juniors in a bottom of the table scrap.
“We’ve only got one or two people left at the club from that first game against Wellington so I don’t think they will be affected by that 11-0 defeat,” said manager Jones.
“But Saturday will be the chance to show how far we have come. We’ve got a settled squad now and we want to push on.
“Last weekend’s win against Pegasus was key. That has left Pegasus five points behind us and gives us that bit of breathing space over them.
“Now it’s got to be onwards and upwards. Certainly there’s a much more positive feeling.
“Now we’ve got some very good players and a team that can compete in mid-table. The priority is to keep Pershore in the Premier Division and then build for the future.”
James Baldwin led the way in the victory against Pegasus, netting on his debut.
But, with winger Baldwin signing on dual registrations forms from Midland League Premier neighbours Worcester City, Jones admits it will be a bonus whenever he plays. City will have first call on his services but Pershore hope to have him if they don’t need him.
“Worcester didn’t have a game and James needed some football so it suited everyone on Saturday,” added Jones. “It was good for him, good for us and good for James. He is the sort of player that makes things happen and makes a difference in the final third.
“He is on dual registration now so if Worcester don’t have a game we could include him again.”
Baldwin bagged the first goal against Pegasus from Dane Aldington’s pass.
Although the Hereford visitors levelled, Baldwin created the chance for Sam Clark to restore the lead and Matt Pinder struck twice for 4-1 before Pegasus replied with two late goals.