United boss Mark Robins has challenged his side to keep up their good form as they continue to climb the Sky Bet League One table.
Boxing Day’s 2-1 victory over Rochdale United extended the Iron’s unbeaten run to nine games, while also moving them four points clear of the relegation zone.Despite the recent upturn in fortune, Robins is wary of the rigours caused by the exertions of a packed festive schedule and told The Iron Player: “We’re on a good run, but know there are areas we need help.
“I always look for areas where I can improve, where the team can improve and areas we can work on in training. We are progressing nicely, and are on a decent run.
“After a period in games we seem to work things out. Although our set-plays weren’t great [against Rochdale] when we had a real height advantage, we’re not looking for negatives.
“The challenge for us is can we keep it up, because the games come thick and fast, but the team is doing really well.”
The Iron’s squad is currently being stretched by a combination of factors, resulting in the majority of Friday’s substitute’s bench being made up of defensive-minded players.
Such a scenario causes relative concern for Robins, who admitted: “The bench isn’t as positive as I’d like it to be, certainly at home.
“If you look around in terms of the positive changes, because of the injuries and illnesses and various things we’ve got going on, it makes it difficult to change the game in a positive way.
“Having said that, of the lads that are there Hakeeb [Adelakun] has come on and made a big difference to us. I’m absolutely delighted with him and his contribution again, even though it was only for a short time.
“His impact was felt, and the players deserve enormous credit because they’re giving everything they have.”
See much more from Mark Robins, Paddy Madden and Liam O'Neil on The Iron Player.