Badgers ready for title test against Tadcaster

BRETT MARSHALL leads his table-topping Retford United side into their "biggest game of the season so far" at second-placed Tadcaster Albion on Saturday (3pm).

The Badgers hold a two-point lead over their North Yorkshire opponents in the Northern Counties East League Premier Division, but Saturday's hosts have two games in hand which ensure they are more than in the 2012 title race.

Marshall's side still have 15 league matches to play this season and despite accepting the magnitude of this weekend's fixture, the Cannon Park boss is certain the result will not be title-defining.

"It's clearly a massive match and undoubtedly our biggest contest of the season so far," said Marshall.

"We obviously cannot afford to drop back in the title race, but Saturday's match won't decide the title. Everyone must still play each other, so nothing will be decided."

The two title contenders have their respective defensive records to thank for their lofty placing in the league table.

While United have the meanest away defence in the division with the concession of just 10 goals, the Brewers have let in a measly four goals all season at their 2inspire Park fortress.

But, despite those striking statistics, chief Marshall is remaining bullish over his team's chances of scoring on Saturday, having already notched three at Tadcaster back in August when the sides met in the NCEL League Cup.

"You have to remember we have already scored three at their place this season," he said.

"It may appear a likely goalless draw to a neutral spectator analysing the league table statistics, but we will certainly be gunning for victory.

"I will not playing for a draw. I would much rather come away from the match with a defeat, knowing we had given everything to win, rather than going there and sitting back.

"My sides will always go down fighting and I can assure the supporters and my players that there is no place for shrinking violets in my dressing room."

The Badgers face a punishing schedule over the next five days. After their 50-mile trip to Tadcaster on Saturday, they travel another 60 miles to Bradford-based Thackley just three days later in the NCEL Cup.