Arbroath skipper Mark Whatley insists a fruitful run of form means the Red Lichties are firmly looking up the League Two table rather than over their shoulders.
Todd Lumsden’s side have won four out of their last five matches are now only four points adrift of fourth place Annan ahead of today’s trip to basement side East Stirling.
And midfielder Whatley insists a play-off finish is now well within their sights.
The former Spartans playmaker said: “It’s the best run we’ve been on so far this season, 12 points from 15 is a good run of form.
“We’re four points off the play offs and we’re totally focussed on looking up the table.
“We’re full of confidence, and going to East Stirling, we’ll respect them but we’re looking to take the three points.
“At the start of the season we lost silly goals and more often than not if you get the first goal in this league, you go on to win the game.
“We’ve looked a lot more solid at the back recently, minus the Elgin game when we were beaten, and we’re sticking a few chances away.”
Trial
Whatley’s own form last term brought him to the attention of Aberdeen after the 25-year-old went on trial at the Dons exactly a year ago.
And although nothing came of his brief training stint at Pittodrie, Whatley reckons he is playing just as well this season.
He added: “I went up for a week’s trial at Aberdeen and it was a great experience.
“I’ve not heard too much this season, I’m just plodding away.
“When you’re getting recognised then it’s good to have and it gives you a kick on to keep pushing yourself.
“I thought I did well when I went up there and it’s a confidence boost knowing there are teams looking at you.
“I got injured in the first game of pre-season so I was playing catch up but I feel my fitness is back and I’m happy with my performances.
“I’m kicking on and it’s always better to be playing for a winning team.”
