In midweek the Lane fired 4 without reply at the home of perennial title rivals Melton Mowbray. Goals from Mark Foster, Ryan Rowley and a brace from Mark Preston saw Melton crash out of the Beacon Bitter cup in spectacular fashion.

“They’re a good side,” said manager Steve Hendey after a good training session on Thursday night. “I don’t think their league position really reflects the quality of the players they have. They’re more than capable of raising it against the top teams, it’s been results against lower sides that have really let them down.”

Town have faced the Lane twice already this season, both games finishing 2-2 after normal time.

“I wasn’t here for the league game earlier in the season. In the cup we were by far the better side but switched off in the last 10 minutes and let them back in.”

Sileby eventually ran out 5-2 winners after finding another gear in extra time but the challenge is clear.

Mark Tinsley is hoping to be fit but may be struggling after being forced off at half time against Desford with a hamstring problem. Steve Hendey will be able to call on the services of the returning Dan Jelley if necessary but may opt for Joe Moscetano who has impressed of late. Tom Marriott will be hoping to return to the starting line-up and resume his one man assault for the golden boot.

Further back and it’s a welcome return for midfielder Leo Coggan. He played 90 minutes for the Reserves last week and will be looking to get back up to speed with such a crucial month ahead. Likely to keep him on his toes though is the form of Joe Lee who has had some solid displays in difficult conditions. Dean Copson, Lewis Tolton and the Hendey brothers are all in contention also.

Alex McLugash continues to impress and will likely hold on to the right back spot in lieu of Aaron Shaw. Eddy Price, unlucky perhaps not to start at Desford, will also be hoping to reclaim his place after a string of impressive performances at centre back.

“We’ve got an incredibly tough month coming up so the squad will be tested and obviously rotated to make sure that we’re fresh. There were a few lads last week who I felt were unfortunate but that’s the nature of challenging for the title and having competition for places. It’s difficult to leave players as talented as Tom (Marriott) and Eddy (Price) on the bench. But hopefully they know that it’s going to happen every once in a while. We’ve got a great bunch and a great spirit though and hopefully that will carry us through February still in the hunt for honours.”

Sileby are at home this weekend to Friar Lane & Epworth, 2pm kick-off at the Sileby Sports ground. Your support would be very welcome.