HEYBRIDGE Swifts manager Cliff Akurang is expecting January to be a big month for his team in Ryman League division one north.

Swifts will look to put the disappointment of a late penalty in their Boxing Day derby against Maldon and Tiptree behind them when they head to Barkingside today and then as they host Brightlingsea Regent at Scraley Road on Saturday.

That penalty against local rivals Maldon denied Akurang the chance of a third win in a row since taking charge at Heybridge as his team were pegged back to a 1-1 draw.

But they remain unbeaten under his management and, with eight games coming up in January, know the next month will be important as they look to continue moving away from the division one north drop zone.

“It is a massive month,” said the Swifts boss.

“There’s going to be a lot of movement in the table and it’s going to be a squad game for us.

“It’s a chance for me to test the players’ resolve as there will probably be players coming out and in because of injuries.”

One of those coming out is set to be Michael Fitzgibbon, who Akurang said is likely to be missing for four to six weeks after twisting his knee in the game against Maldon and Tiptree.

Akurang added: “It’s going to be a busy time and there will be chances for all of the players.

“This month is an opportunity for them to stamp their place in the team long-term and that’s what football is all about.”

The first chance to do that is at Barkingside today and with the hosts sitting in the drop zone and Heybridge just outside it, it is an important game to start the year for both clubs.

However, Akurang knows all games are important at the moment.

He said: “For us, every game is a cup final and we have to see it like that until we are mathematically safe.

“Any team can get dragged into the relegation zone, but then any team that can string some wins together can climb up the table.”