OUR play-off position was finally confirmed on Monday following a victory over relegation-threatened Tamworth.

We now have plenty of time to prepare for the big games in just over two weeks' time.

The game against Tamworth did not provide too much entertainment but, in defence of the players, I would point out that our opponents set out a formation intent on defending.

We played a little bit into their hands by playing with a slow build-up and, although we had plenty of the ball, we created very little.

One of the features of our play over the past couple of seasons has been our ability to break quickly with pace and precision, but the pitch this season has deteriorated quite rapidly.

It may look good from the stands but, when dry, it does stop us from passing accurately and, importantly, with pace. We may have to tweak our game plan a little to counter these problems.

Questions I am repeatedly asked are about whom we would like to meet in the play-offs and will the experience of the last two play-off seasons be of any help to us.

The first answer is that all our potential opponents can cause us problems and all are beatable. I have no preference.

As to the experience, I know that, similar to supporters, the heartache of defeat in the last two years is something I do not wish to feel again this time round.

Whatever we do to prepare the players, when they cross that white line for the big ones certain attributes have to prevail.

We know that they have ability, fitness and organisation. The biggest attribute of them all, however, is mental toughness. The matches are pressure situations, therefore it is the players that can handle that extra pressure who will come out on top.

The young ones, especially, can do one of two things; freeze because the occasion is too big for them or have no fear and really relish what is to come. Rest assured we will prepare them well, then it is up to them.

One other ingredient is then required and that is the fickle hand of luck.

A little bit of good fortune on the day would be very welcome and that can be the difference between success and failure.

Who would ever forget referee Andy Woolmer's decision to send-off Andy Tretton two seasons ago and condemn us to playing 100 minutes with 10 men.

We, of course, will do our best to ensure that we make our own luck but then, how does the saying go, something about third time lucky!