Thomas is Hinckley's first and only manager

Hinckley United manager Dean Thomas says his side are full of confidence and on track for a place in the Blue Square North play-offs.

The Knitters, who have not lost at home since August, lie third in the table after a thumping 4-1 victory over second-placed Southport on Monday.

And Thomas told BBC Sport: "On our day we can beat anyone in the league. We are confident and are playing well.

"There's no reason why we can't stay in the play-offs."

Thomas, who has been Hinckley manager since the club's formation in 1997, added: "We have a wonderful home record and have not lost at home since August. We need to carry on winning our home games and pick up what we can away.

"At the start of the season we said we wanted to improve on 10th place last season and if we could get into the play-offs we'd be happy.

We have had one of two indifferent results but we are still playing well and winning games Hinckley boss Dean Thomas

"It was a wonderful performance against Southport. We rode our luck at times and they missed one or two good chances, but we took our chances which is what it's all about.

"Our defenders played exceptionally well; we were resilient and determined and put a lot of effort into the game."

Former Notts County player Thomas, 49, also feels the recent poor weather has been a big help to his team, enabling them to re-charge their batteries and get ready for a frantic run-in.

"It was a chance for a break," Thomas explained.

"We haven't stopped since the start of July. It was an opportunity to recuperate and spend time with families and it benefited us a great deal.

"We have had one of two indifferent results but we are still playing well and winning games. We have been missing one or two players but have sustained good form."

While the recent freezing weather curtailed their on-pitch activities, the Knitters have had plenty to keep them busy off the pitch.

The club recently faced a winding-up petition from HM Revenue and Customs in the Companies Court in London because of an unpaid tax bill of £191,000.

But Hinckley say that bill has now been settled and Thomas said that was a big boost.

Thomas added: "It is a big worry off our minds. We needed to get the infrastructure right and sort out the financial side of things.

"It's been tough on the players but their attitude has been wonderful and we have managed to keep them motivated."

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