Simpson calls for ruthless streak

Manager Paul Simpson has urged Shrewsbury Town to become more ruthless at home in the promotion run-in – as they prepare for a critical Prostar Stadium double-header.

Town entertain Barnet tonight before near rivals Hereford are the visitors on Saturday.

Shrewsbury’s home form has been patchy throughout this season, with 14 League Two games on home territory yielding six wins so far.

And Simpson believes a strong home points return for the remainder of the season is key to Shrewsbury’s chances of success.

“It’s been a bit of a turning of the tables from last season because our away form has been good and our home form has slipped a bit,” said the Town boss.

“We have now got two home games and it’s important we do it properly.

“We haven’t been as ruthless defensively at home as we have been away and, while we have had good spells of possession during our home games, we haven’t always scored in them.

“It’s important, especially with some of the other teams in the top places still to come here, that our home form is strong from now on.”

Tonight’s game will pit Shrewsbury against £100,000 transfer window target John O’Flynn, who rejected the chance to move to Shrewsbury.

But Simpson believes Barnet – who won their first game in 15 attempts at the weekend – pose threats across the pitch.

“John O’Flynn is a good player in my opinion and we will have to defend properly against him and the other attacking threats Barnet have,” added Simpson.

“They are still the same side that started the season strongly and they have got players who thrive on confidence.”

Simpson must decide whether to continue with Dave Hibbert as the lone striker – with Steve Leslie or Craig Disley in support as at Macclesfied on Saturday – or field a second conventional forward. He will again have to cope without right back Dean Holden, who has a hamstring problem.