Dickov eyes six-point haul

ATHLETIC manager Paul Dickov is under no illusions about the size of the task facing his side at Hartlepool United tomorrow — one of the in-form sides in npower League One.

Mick Wadsworth’s men saw off Huddersfield Town away from home on Boxing Day, a game witnessed by Dickov, to move just behind Athletic on the edge of the play-offs.

And on home soil at Victoria Park, Pool will be out to end Athletic’s unbeaten run which stretches back to Southampton in October.

“They have picked up some fantastic results recently,” Dickov said of a United team, who have won six of their last seven in all competitions.

“They are very well organised and are on a bit of a roll so it will be a tough, tough game for us. We know what to expect and know we are in for a hard game.

“But the boys are chomping at the bit and are absolutely craving to get out there and play some football.”

A six-point pick-up from the next two games would be a perfect New Year tonic for Dickov and that is the target he has in mind with a home derby clash with Rochdale to come on Monday.

The teams drew 1-1 at Spotland in Athletic’s last competitive game.

“We started ever so well but you have to give Rochdale credit, as I did at the time,” he added.

“They came back really well in the second half and made it hard for us.

“But we are the home team and will have a big, big crowd here backing us. We are looking to win both games.”