Parallel Lines

In the first game of this calendar year Cheltenham recorded a scrappy 1-0 win over Port Vale. At the time, this was the battle of the bottom two. Following this result the Robins went on to secure League One safety, whilst the Valiants were relegated to the fourth tier.

On Saturday, Cheltenham defeated Vale’s local rivals Crewe by the same scoreline. Again this was a clash between the league’s two lowest ranked sides. Robin’s fans will be hoping this result will have the same galvanising effect as the victory eleven months ago.

Things have been looking more positive in the last few weeks for Martin Allen’s men and Saturday’s result was the culmination of the progress made in recent times. Defensively, the side look alot more certain than a month ago, whilst the return of John Finnigan adds steel and leadership to the midfield.

The FA Cup run is another recent plus point, as the money is crucial in Allen’s desire to improve the squad. Paul Baker has also spoken of the importance of the competition given the large amount of cash spent since Keith Downing’s departure.

The next two months are vitally important to Cheltenham both on and off the pitch. This month sees a run of winnable fixtures which could see the Robins out of the bottom four by New Year. Whilst, January will see large scale changes in the squad as Martin Allen has his first extensive oppotunity to shape his team.

Gradually, the side is starting to become more settled and will become stronger with extra additions early next year. Saturday’s game sees the Robins face Leyton Orient, with Cheltenham hoping for a first away win in the league since March. The home form looks solid enough, but victory on the road would set Allen’s men up well for the crucial festive period.