AFC Totton boss Steve Riley is keen to add to his squad as it prepares for four games in ten days after today’s Christmas derby at Sholing.

The Stags manager was impressed by the debut of on-loan Poole Town midfielder Billy Lowes in last Saturday’s 1-1 draw against Clevedon Town.

He is hoping to have defender Stuart Mott and midfielder Liam Gilbert back for the trip to Sholing, but insists reinforcements are still needed with four games in ten days awaiting the Stags at the beginning of 2015.

Riley said: “Billy had a really good debut, but with five games in 15 days and four in ten – on the 1st, 3rd 6th and tenth – there is a lot of pressure on the squad.

“I’m just hoping it’s going to be okay. Hopefully we’ll be able to bring in a couple more players but we’ll see where we are after the game against Fleet on New Year’s Day.”

After hosting Fleet, Totton travel to Stratford before two home games in five days against Didcot and Bashley.

Riley is hoping it will be the start of a good year after a difficult last two at the Testwood Stadium.

“We’ve been through hard times for a couple of years with no money – and there isn’t much as we speak,” he said.

“But this is a transitional period and the main thing is the club’s now on a steady platform. It’s been tough and we’re not a top-of-the-league side but we’re improving all the time and the players’ attitude is spot on.

“We’re hoping to be mid-table come the turn of the year and kick on.”

Both Totton and Sholing are looking for a return to winning ways after failing to win either of their last two.

“Dave Diaper’s done a good job since he’s been back so hopefully there’ll be a good crowd, especially with Saints not playing,” continued Riley, whose team beat the Boatmen 2-1 in August, courtesy of a brace from Craig Feeney.

“We had a close game earlier in the season and just managed to pip them so I’m sure they’ll want to get their revenge,” he added.

“They’ve had a few injuries as well but we’re hoping that Stuart Mott and Liam Gilbert will be okay, so we’ll be at full strength.”