Exeter City manager Paul Tisdale has urged his players not to get fixated on where they are in the table heading into Saturday's match with Newport County.
he Grecians scored two late goals at Mansfield last time out – including a 97th-minute penalty from Reuben Reid – to stay in the play-off places for the 14 consecutive game.
However, that was not a topic of discussion Tis wanted to get involved in.
"I just don't think it is the right theme to keep saying we are staying in the play-offs – we are not in the play-offs," said Tis. "We are in the play-offs in May if we get there.
"We will be if, on the last game of the season, when the final whistle blows we are sat between fourth and seventh. That is all that matters. Let's not think we have done it. Let's be calm and collected and move on to the next.
"We have to take it one game at a time and that is Newport County at home on Saturday."
Tis was able to change the game from the bench on Saturday, with both Matt Oakley and Reid putting in great displays having gone onto the pitch midway through the second half.
The City manager admits that will make a massive difference going into the final weeks of the campaign.
"I have got a bench to work with and I have not had that for a few years," he said. "So even with injuries to Lee Holmes, Robbie Simpson and Craig Woodman, I have still got lots and lots of choices on that bench and you have to pick the right player for the right moment."
Tisdale also praised Luke Croll for his performance. The on-loan Crystal Palace defender filled in at left-back, due to Woodman's injury, and performed admirably.
"I thought Luke Croll had a really good game," he said. "When he came to us (from Crystal Palace) we asked him if he could cover left back if he had to. It is not his preferred position but it has always been there as a backup just in case."
Tickets for Exeter City match at home to Newport County on Saturday are available on the gate, but they can also be purchased – at a discounted price – in advance online at tickets.ecfc.co.uk, by phoning Exeter City on 01392 411243 or by visiting the club shop and reception between 9am and 5.30pm Monday to Friday.