Tis: We want to keep our momentum going
Manager Paul Tisdale says Exeter City will be approaching Saturday’s game in the same manner they would have if they needed the three points to secure a play-off spot.
The Grecians made sure of a top seven finish last weekend when they beat Doncaster Rovers 3-1 at the Keepmoat Stadium meaning that there is no pressure on them going into the last game as they can afford to lose and still finish in the play-off positions.
However, whilst Tis admits it is nice to not have any nerves he adds that they will not be taken the game lightly.
“It is not nervy,” said Tis. “But that doesn’t mean we are going to take it any less seriously of course.
“We were relieved to get that play-off spot last week and not have to go through that final game stress, which quite a few of the other teams will know have to do, but we are not taking the game lightly.
“One, because we want to keep our momentum and what, we believe, to be good form and we also owe it to the other teams not to take the game lightly and alter their chances.
“So we are going to approach the game to win it in exactly the same way we would have done had we needed the points.”
Victory against Carlisle United could mean they avoid the Cumbrians in the play-offs, while a defeat to Keith Curle’s men would almost certainly land them with a two-legged play-off semi-final against the Blues.
“Yes, we know that,” said Tis. “But I can assure you we are not trying to lose the game (on Saturday) to engineer that game (in the play-off semi-final).”
“I don’t think we know what is best for us,” added Tis. “The league is so tight, by definition, look at all these teams (still in with a chance).
“It just shows you how tight it is. The level is so close. All these teams are all worthy of being there, so whoever we play will be a challenge and they’ll be no easy game.
“Our focus has to be on momentum and winning games of football. We have won the last two and we have got to focus on winning the next four then not matter who we play we will be successful.
“That is our plan, that is what we are trying to do. We have just got to get our heads down and play football.”
Speaking about injuries in the squad, Tis added: “Craig Woodman is back in training, but whether he is strong enough to play, I don’t know I will have to make up my mind on that but it is a big ask really.
“Matt Oakley is probably a week away from being available, so we are looking at the play-offs for his availability.
“Tom McCready is back in training after missing all season so it is shame for him to have missed the best part of eight months but everyone else is fit apart from the long-term absentee of Robbie Simpson.”