Atherstone Town are looking to put a "turbulent week" behind them this afternoon as football replaces the swirling storm clouds of allegations of off-the-field racial abuse.

The Adders have their eyes firmly fixed on an upward trajectory in terms of climbing to the summit of the Midland Football League Division One table – hoping to secure three points from opponents Heath Hayes in that pursuit.

The team, now under "in-house" control following the shock departure of managerial duo Scott Rickards and Mike Fowler after last Saturday's fixture at Stafford Town, are determined to "get back on track", according to a club statement,

Adders have home advantage in their next three fixtures – Heath Hayes today, the derby challenge of Hinckley AFC next Wednesday night – and the dream tie against Northern League opponents Consett AFC in the Vase quarter-final on February 29.

Chairman Brian Henney believes it within the high-flying team's grasp to make up the points that separate sixth-placed Adders – with up to six games in hand on their rivals –from leaders Leicester Road at the top of the table.

Despite the dramas of last Saturday, the Adders enjoyed a comfortable 3-0 result with a brace from Ray Harkin and an opener from Perry Cotton.

The weather – with successive meteorological storms Ciara and Dennis – has left its mark on the Mark Webster Community Stadium ground but with the forecast set fare for this afternoon (dry and temperatures of 10C, although fresh to strong winds), the club is hopeful of plenty of positive action on the field.

New signing: Daventry-based Adana Security Services will be supplying security for Adders' home games for the remainder of the season.