GREAT Harwood boss Denis Underwood thinks that reaching the 40 point mark might be enough to save his side from the NWCL Division One relegation zone.

Harwood have currently got just 17 points and are lying third from bottom in the table with the bottom two relegated.

But he hopes his side can pick up the points when Harwood make the trip to fellow strugglers Fleetwood Freeport tomorrow - and kick start their season

"I think we are going to have to get near 40 points and even though we are a fair way off at the moment we have got to start picking up points now to make life easier," said the Harwood chief.

"We need to make sure we are in a reasonable position with ten games to go.

"Nantwich have been on a run recently and have pulled away as have Glossop and we need to do that.

"We have to play Maine Road, who are just below us, and Glossop twice so we need to earmark these game.

"Saying that we play St Helens on Wednesday night and although they are challenging for promotion they have been stumbling in recent weeks so we need to try and frustrate them and keep it tight."

Underwood has been frustrated in the goals Harwood have given away in recent weeks - especially Saturday's 2-2 draw with Abbey Hey.

"We scored two great goals through Graham Lightbowne and then when we were pushing forward, gave the ball away and left them one on one with our keeper. They were two sloppy goals but the arrival of Dave Sharples in midfield might help this.

"He has certainly helped going forward, talking, holding the ball up, creating things and encouraging the younger ones and he impressed me."

Former Morecambe and Clitheroe midfielder Sharples made his debut for Harwood against Abbey Hey and could be the one to help save their season.

But Lightbowne is also playing his part - he has taken his tally to 14 goals for the season.

"If Graham is not scoring, he is always a threat - having a shot and forcing the keeper to do something," said the boss.

"If he can get in the 20s this season it will be pleasing for both him and me."

Harwood are without Andy Clarkson and James Coonan for tomorrow's important clash.