ASHLEY Stevens has been lauded as the best in the business by Holbeach United boss John Chand.
The striker, who has notched 23 goals for the Tigers this season, picked up the United Counties League’s golden boot for December at Carter’s Park on Saturday.
Free-scoring Stevens bagged a magnificent seven in the final month of 2011 as Holbeach climbed up to second in the Premier Division standings.
The hitman has formed a lethal Carter’s Park partnership with Andrew Tidswell, who also boasts 23 goals for the season already – making them the most feared strikeforce in the division.
“Ash is the best at what he does in the league,” said Chand, who signed both Stevens and Tidswell in the summer. “He frustrates defenders and holds the ball up superbly.
“Some people may look at him and think he holds on to the ball too long, but I feel he plays a massive role for the team.
“He hasn’t missed a game either, I think he’s the only one in the squad to have played every game.
“For him and Tidswell to have nearly 50 between them already is incredible. It’s great to have them both in the team.”
Chand is hoping the pair continue their rich vein of form at Daventry United on Saturday (3pm).
The Tigers go into the clash on a three game winning streak – and they’ve already beaten The Motormen twice this season.
But last Saturday’s 2-1 success at Peterborough Northern Star ensures Holbeach won’t be taking them lightly.
Chand added: “We’ve already beaten them a few times, but they can’t be underestimated.
“They had a great win at PNS and have picked up a few new players, so we’ll need to be at our best if we want to win.”
Paul Goodhand (hamstring) is the Tigers’ only injury doubt, while midfield duo Matt Warfield and Wes Lewis are both available.