MANAGER Carl Heeley believes the next six weeks will be a stern test of Worcester City's play-off credentials.

City moved up to fourth in the table with a 5-0 thrashing of Hinckley United last Saturday, thanks to goals from Mike Symons, Tom Thorley, Charlie Reece, Rob Elvins and Danny Edwards.

However, between now and December 15, they will take on Guiseley and Chester, currently third and second respectively, as well as Halifax and Bradford Park Avenue, two teams just outside the top five.

There is also the small matter of the FA Trophy third qualifying round against Altrincham at St George's Lane on Saturday.

"We're into November and we're in the play-off positions. There's a long way to go and we've got a very tough month coming up and into December when we play teams around the top five," Heeley said.

"That will be a test of how close we are but we've got as much chance as anyone else and we're doing OK. I've got faith in the boys that we can have a good go at it.

"If you're fourth at any stage in the season you're going to be happy but it's about progression and improving on last season.

"I think we have improved, we've got better players and a stronger squad. We're pleased with how we're going but it's one game at a time.

"We can't worry about anyone else, we'll worry about what we're doing."

Heeley is also confident of building on the Hinckley victory with success in the Trophy against 12th-placed Altrincham.

He said: "We have got a tough game on Saturday and it's a tough one for Altrincham as well but I fancy us, I think we've got a chance. If we're ruthless and do things right then we'll be a match for anyone.

"It's good to have a home draw and we'll give it all we've got. I am sure we'll be close to getting through, I really fancy us."

The City boss added: "It's a break from the league and it's an opportunity to bring some funds in through prize money.

"We were always going to go out of the FA Cup at some point and it's always disappointing when you do but the FA Trophy is always important, as is the league."

Striker Danny Glover is still sidelined by an Achilles problem, while defender Lee Ayres and midfielder Matt Birley are both nursing minor knee injuries.