Boxing Clever?

This Friday’s clash with Yeovil gives Cheltenham the opportunity to haul themselves out of the bottom four for the first time in three months. The 16th of September saw the Robins defeat Bristol Rovers 2-1 in Martin Allen’s first match in charge and climb to 20th. But, ever since then they have been marooned in the League One relegation zone.

Allen and his troops will certainly be hoping there won’t be a repeat of Boxing Day four years ago, when the Robins travelled to Huish Park and were on the wrong end of a 4-1 defeat. Cheltenham’s recent good form gives much optimism that this won’t happen again. They are unbeaten in five and the last four league games have seen only one goal conceded by a now watertight defence.

The Robins aren’t without their problems for their upcoming fixtures though. Drissa Diallo has been ruled out for several weeks with a knee injury, whilst Damian Spencer is out of contention for a month with a similar problem. Josh Payne has also returned to West Ham following his successful loan spell, leaving Martin Allen with a few selection dilemmas.

It is likely that he will want to stick with the 4-3-3 formation, which has served him well in recent times. In that case, there are enough options to fill the void left by Spencer. Ashley Vincent returns from suspension, whilst Jonathan Hayes could feature following the extension of his loan deal this week. The Leicester winger looked lively against Walsall and could be given a rare start.

The other player to consider is Lloyd Owusu, who has been consigned to the bench in recent times. But, Allen may feel he doesn’t have the pace required for the wide role in a three pronged attack. The rest of the side will more or less pick itself with little room for change in the defensive area. The midfield may see a return for Alex Russell in place of the departed Payne in the only other forced change from last weekend.

Success in the next two league games could see the Robins climbing the table and looking forward to an important January both on and off the pitch. The year starts with a financially vital FA cup clash against Doncaster, followed by more crucial league fixtures. Off the pitch there will also be some important goings on, with the contracts of Darren Kenton and Elvis Hammond up for review. Whilst the numerous transfer listed players at the club will be looking to move on, with more new faces expected to arrive.

The Robins have only won twice in the last six years on Boxing Day and will be hoping to improve this record on Friday. It has been a turbulent year at Whaddon Road, but a positive result at Yeovil and the Robins can look forward to a successful 2009.