AFTER slipping to fourth spot on the Football Wagga ladder, Leeton United needs to clinch a crucial victory this weekend.
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In their sights is the second-placed Henwood Park, who are running hot at the right time of the year.
Both teams will be refreshed following last weekend’s general bye and Leeton’s hunger for a win will be intensified.
United is yet to win a game in the second round after finishing the first round on top of the table.
Senior player Scott Munro said the club had used the bye weekend wisely.
“We had a combined club training run last Tuesday and a barbecue, then a light run on Thursday (with) a video session, so it was pretty relaxed,” he said.
“A couple of the boys have been carrying injuries so the week off always helps.
“They're back to full fitness for this weekend, which is good.”
The injuries to key players, particularly in their last match against Lake Albert, hasn’t helped their chances of a win.
United will be hopeful of the side having a spring in their step for their match on Saturday despite still being down on a few troops.
Julian Mandaglio (hamstring) will return from injury, while Carlo Trifogli and captain Joey Fondacaro are back in the side after sitting out due to suspension.
There are still some players out for this weekend’s clash, including Munro (unavailable), while Luke Mandaglio and Dom Puntoriero are both suspended.
“We've been working on improving our overall game … all the basic things,” Munro said.
“If we do them better, the other stuff will take care of itself.
“We need to keep creating plenty of chances and be patient in front of goal.
“They (Henwood Park) have a very strong defence and their goalkeeper is one of the best in the league.”
As the season starts to inch closer to finals, Munro said the side was aiming for a top three finish heading into the pointy end of the year.
“We've got three finals contenders coming up in Henwood Park, Cootamundra and Tumut, so we'll need maximum points from those three (games),” he said.