Ian Allinson says the lack of pressure can be St Albans City’s secret weapon in the play-off chase – much as it was for Braintree Town last year.

The Essex side were late entries into the play-offs last year, eventually finishing the season in sixth before winning promotion to the National League.

The City boss said: “We’re under no illusions, we’ve got a tough run-in but we play better against the top teams.

“The players have done great to get where we are. I still say we should be in the play-offs already but sometimes when you’re in there, the pressure is on you.

“There’s no pressure on us, we’re not expected to get in there and there are a lot of teams above us but maybe we can surprise a few people in the last couple of games.

“If we don’t get in, it won’t be for the lack of trying. We’re trying hard to get in there of course.

“There will be a lot of pressure on others and there’s still loads to play for.”