Holleran tips Stanley to make a difference

Nick Stanley was handed his first start on Saturday after making the switch from Swindon Supermarine and was instrumental in guiding Brakes to a 2-1 win over Didcot which only kept Holleran’s side out of the play-off positions on goal difference.

And with Ben Mackey waiting on the sidelines after rejoining from Corby, Holleran is banking on his side having the extra firepower to extend their season past April 25.

“There are certain players you sign, like Alex Taylor, Jacob Blyth and Jamie Sheldon that you know will need a bit of time to settle in,” said Holleran.

“But with players like Nick Stanley and your Jamie Hoods and Liam Dalys, you know you’ve got good players straight away.

“With Nick, we’d had a sniff at him before. He’s got great quality and you can see he’s a threat.

“He’s a great signing for us and thankfully he’s prepared to travel [from Swindon].

“Hopefully, he’ll be able to add that goal or that cross that will make the difference in the last few weeks.”

With just five league games remaining, the chances of former fans’ favourite Mackey having a similar impact are less promising.

The striker is in the final stages of rehabilitation as he recovers from a broken leg sustained while playing for Corby in the Conference North.

However, despite Mackey still being weeks away from a return, Holleran said the decision to bring him back to the New Windmill was an easy one.

“Originally we got in touch to give him somewhere to finish his rehabilitation.

“It’s nice to have him around the place and you are never going to turn down a player of his calibre.

“Ben is desperate for a run around and I wouldn’t rule it out. He’s hopeful.

“He’s started to jog and it will be close. He’s about two to three weeks away.

“But we’ve got to do what’s best for Ben Mackey.

“He doesn’t want to set himself back for next season.”

With Lee Downes, Jacob Blyth and Jamie Hood among a number of players carrying knocks, Holleran has been thankful for a blank midweek ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Brackley.

And, despite Jon Brady’s side being marooned in mid-table, Holleran does not expect an easy three points at St James Park, with Saints coming into the game on the back of a 4-0 midweek hammering of Bedford.

“They can beat anyone on their day as they have shown,” he said.

“We’re well aware all games are difficult in the run-in. But the break will help us.”