Histon youngsters have to show no fear against Royston, says boss Lance Key

Key to face old club

Lance Key will be hoping to use insider knowledge in a bid to help Histon cause an upset when they host Royston on Boxing Day.

They lifted themselves off the bottom of the Evo-Stik League Southern, Division One table last week with a 4-3 win against Petersfield, but the long journey took its toll at the weekend, when they lost 2-0 at Chalfont St Peter.

"I think if I'm honest, the Tuesday night game at Petersfield took a lot out of us,said Histon manager Key."It conspired to us being out of it in the first half on Saturday.

"At half time, once we had a word we did better but they had that bit more quality in certain areas.

"We did huff and puff and kept fighting, but we did look a bit vulnerable at the back as we were chasing the game."

Next up are Royston, who are currently second in the table, and who Key left as coach to take over at Histon.

"I have worked there for a year recently so I know the squad inside out and the players inside out,said Key.

"It's just a very well run football club. I would relate Royston to what Histon were when I played.

"It's what Histon was 10 years ago and we all know where that got Histon.

"We're going in to win the game but I know it will be very difficult and I know their capabilities and on their day they could beat anyone.

"It's going to be difficult but it will be nice to see some old friends.

"We go into the game with nothing to lose, it's like an FA Cup game.

"If we get something out of the game it will be an unbelievable achievement.

"The youngsters in our camp will not hold any fear as they don't know what it is yet.

"Any given day if we are above our form and they are below theirs, then it's a leveller."