CARL Heeley is in optimistic mood ahead of Worcester City's clash with Weymouth at St George's Lane tomorrow (3pm).

City's skipper has shrugged off fears over recent results (five defeats in six) by insisting their form is good and confidence high.

But Steve Claridge's Terras side, currently second in the Dr Martens Premier Division a point behind leaders Nuneaton, will be another severe test for a City still seeking to turn improved performances into results.

And while sixth-placed City are just five points adrift of top spot a meagre haul of three points from 15 has added extra significance to tomorrow's clash.

"We need to win the match to bring us back in the right direction with the top sides," admitted Heeley.

"But the fact is nobody has got away from us. Although it's been disappointing to lose we've managed to avoid draws and pick up wins.

"We can also take heart from the fact that despite losing five matches we are still only five points adrift and it doesn't look as though anybody is going to run away with the league."

Heeley is set to hand City boss John Barton a boost by declaring himself fit to take his place alongside Barry Woolley in the heart of the defence but will be in for a busy afternoon on his return with Claridge and Scott Partridge in the opposition line-up.

"Steve Claridge has been around the top levels and if he plays will be a handful," said Heeley.

"He's highly respected in the game and has been a proven goalscorer all his career so it's going to be tough."

"Before the Bath City game we had not played well but in the two games against Nuneaton Borough we produced some decent football and were unfortunate not to come out with anything," he added.

"In fact we're probably going to play a lot worse than that and win games."

As ever with City this season it will be about taking chances and Heeley, a hat-trick hero in his last appearance at the Lane, will be happy to oblige if opportunity presents itself.

"Pretty much every game for us comes down to taking chances because we are certainly creating them but I'll settle for one this time round especially if its the only goal of the game."

FORMCAST: City win 2-1.