It would be either churlish or at worst, naïve, to suggest we have completely turned the corner after this latest win put us within striking distance of the Holy Grail of the play-off zone.

But, even a couple of weeks ago – despite an improved performance – in our narrow defeat at MK Dons, there must have been a few worrying glances over the proverbial shoulders with the League Two trapdoor slowly beginning to ensnare us.

Fast forward three league games and a cup tie having gleaned 11 goals, nine points and a chance of reaching the third round of the FA Cup - even the wildest optimist would have been hard-pressed to have foretold what an adventure we would have been embarking on.

But, the fact of the matter is now, 11 days down the road and close to a 1000 miles clocked up by not only the players, but the loyal fans – hands up whose been to all three of those games – the pressure is now on us to maintain that run of good form.

After all, having originally lost 11 of our first sixteen games, something needed to change and obviously the return of Kevin Lisbie has been the much-needed catalyst to revive our fortunes.

The last three league games have been ‘six-pointers’ – i.e. against teams around us in the table and thankfully we have seen them off.

After all, and as the old saying goes, ‘you can only beat what is in front of you’, we have done just that and put some daylight between us and the drop zone.

Portsmouth, Carlisle and even Shrewsbury, a couple of weeks ago, are all struggling – but I am sure all will come good eventually – which could make those maximum point returns all that more important.

Remember, with eight wins and a draw it’s very much a glass ‘half full’ as we’ve reached exactly 50 per cent of the points we would have almost certainly needed to retain our League One status for an impressive seventh season.

Preston – on the other hand – are where we want to be – in and around the play-off area – and will certainly be a different kettle of fish.

They seem to be finding their feet under boss Graham Westley and will it will certainly prove to be an intriguing contest. Too close to call.

Up the O’s

Keep the faith