Gravity of situation is not lost on us, insists Newton

DEFENDER Joe Newton says Solihull Moors’ determination to win remains as strong as ever and their mindset is just as focused.

- By COLIN STONER

The only difference between now and 12 months ago is the possible consequences of the next six games.

From being on course for the play-offs and a first-ever trip to Wembley in 2024, Moors are now hovering above the drop zone in the National League.

Beset by injuries and forced changes, a run of just one win in 2025 has destroyed another promotion tilt and Moors head to Southend today with a five-point gap above the bottom four with six fixtures to play.

Four of those matches, including the trip to Roots Hall, are against top-ten sides dreaming of the play-offs, with the other two against teams scrapping for survival - Boston on Easter Monday and then a last-day showdown with Dagenham & Redbridge.

“It's a new situation to be this close to the bottom but that’s as much a part of being a footballer as being near the top,’ said fullback Newton. “I guess the last two seasons for me have really shown the highs and lows of the job.

“I was saying the other day to my dad that the last game of the season is on May 5 and that could be a massive game. Exactly the same date, the year before, we were at Wembley in the play-off final. It just shows you anything can happen in football. You've always got to be on the ball”