Hinckley United boss Dean Thomas says Saturday's game at fellow Blue Square North high-flyers Droylsden is a great test of their promotion credentials.

The Bloods lie second in the table but four wins in a row means the Knitters are fourth - just two points behind.

"Droylsden are the best team we have played this season so it will be very difficult," Thomas told BBC Sport.

"But it will be a great yardstick for us and we seem to play better against the so-called best teams."

But Thomas, November's Blue Square North manager of the month, said although his side will be mindful of the quality of opposition, they will also be looking for maximum points.

"We always set out to win the game but when you are playing the better teams you have to err on the side of caution," he said.

With a bit of success comes belief and confidence and that is a big factor Hinckley boss Dean Thomas

"Maybe you have to be a bit more defensive-minded but we still want to win.

"They are a good passing side but will be well prepared and will look to be dogged and competitive in midfield and we must take our chances when they come."

Confidence will be high on their back of their recent run which has seen them beat Gainsborough Trinity, Alfreton Town, Stafford Rangers and Northwich Victoria.

And Thomas was quick to praise the team effort involved in earning his accolade and also Adam Webster's player-of-the-month award.

"The awards are great but it's only on the back of us all doing well together," Thomas said.

"We have done done well recently and players must take the credit.

"With a bit of success comes belief and confidence and that is a big factor. But the Christmas period is crucial and there's still an awfully long to way go.

"We have been playing some good attacking football and defensively we seem to be getting things right."

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