Five-goal Stafford Rangers heading in right direction

Despite stunning Grantham Town 5-0 to record their biggest away win in more than four years, Boro remain outside of the Northern Premier relegation zone on goal difference only.

Stafford’s joint-managers are aware that every game is ‘massive’ but after scoring eight goals on a three-match unbeaten run, they’re confident the club’s fortunes are turning around.

“All the credit goes to the lads,” Meechan told Stafford Rangers TV. “The commitment, and willingness to respond to stuff on the training ground.

“We always believe we’ll score goals, but now we look hard to beat.

“The fans are starting to bubble nicely, we wanted to create that good vibe.

“But ultimately the players are starting to believe and if you get them believing there’s only one way you’re going and that’s upwards.”

The 5-0 thrashing, which came from five headers from five different players, was even more impressive because Boro lost Andy Haworth to a red card with 35 minutes to go when the score was 3-0.

“The clean sheet is a massive bonus,” said Meechan. “We’ve worked hard on that. We’ve proved how strong we can be, we’ve shown character.”

Fellow joint-manager Andy Fearn added: “I’m sure Andy regrets that five minutes after being yellow carded for a previous bit of petulance.

“We’ll speak to him and we won’t tolerate it, because ill discipline can cost us.

“We’ll work on it, Andy’s a fabulous player, brings a lot of ability and skill and determination to the front line.

"He’ll miss a game, and it might be difficult to get straight back into the side.”

Meechan and Fearn replaced Steve Burr following his resignation shortly after Christmas, and the former Boro boss has now retired from football management.

Meanwhiel, teenage goalkeeper Adam Siviter has extended his loan from Birmingham City until April 27 following his clean sheet at Grantham.