Five-point lead piles pressure on rivals says Davis

A hard-earned goalless draw at Lincoln City on Saturday moved Town five points clear at the top of the Skrill Premier and piled more pressure on nearest rivals Cambridge United, writes Mark Wood.
ltfc v Staines Townltfc v Staines Town
ltfc v Staines Town

Long-term leaders U’s do have three games in hand but, with Town having been in a similar position in recent seasons, everyone at Kenilworth Road will know how hard it is to chase down a lead.

On-loan Port Vale defender Joe Davis said: “It’s just about putting pressure on them. We’ve done all we can. They’re going into each game thinking, have Luton have won again? Or drawn again? And it adds that little bit of pressure. I’m sure they won’t like it and we’re just focusing on what we do and hopefully they’ll slip up.”

However, it now looks likely that Davis’ loan deal will not be renewed as he has been included in the Valiants’ squad that goes to League One leaders Brentford at the weekend.

Town still have to go to the Abbey in an as yet to be rearranged league match, but will get a taster when they take on the U’s there in the third round of the FA Trophy on Saturday.

Speaking before his return, the 20-year-old centre-half had been keen to play a part if his loan deal was renewed, having already helped Town through the first two rounds.

He said: “I’ve been involved in the last few rounds so I want to go as far as I can in terms of that competition and if the gaffer wants to play me I’m more than happy to do that.

“It’s just another game and I’m happy to do that if he makes the call for me to come in and play.”

Davis had already played nine times for Luton, including playing every minute of the busy five-game 15-day festive period, but he believes tiredness is not an issue.

He added: “The recovery team, Dave (Richardson) works hard with us to make sure we recover well, and I’m sure he will sort me out in terms of getting my legs back this week and if he wants me to play I’m more than happy to do so.”