AFC DARWEN boss Mark Patterson believes the lack of a goalscorer is costing his side but he remains confident they can beat the drop in the Hallmark Security League Premier Division.

The Salmoners are five points from safety and missed the chance to close the gap when losing 1-0 at relegation rivals Burscough last time out.

Patterson's side face a tough trip to high-flying Charnock Richard tonight before a six-pointer at Maine Road on Saturday.

And the Darwen boss believes his side can turn their season around and beat the drop.

He said: "If we had a goalscorer I think we would be quite a few points better off.

"It was the case against Burscough that we missed a few chances and in the end lost 1-0, we were a bit unlucky but we need to start picking up points.

"We're still looking for that goalscorer but it is easier said than done at this time of year. Things can change after Christmas with people not playing and budgets changing but we will keep working hard and trying to get results.

"No-one is expecting us to pick anything up from Charnock Richard so that does take the pressure off and then Saturday is a massive game for us."

Despite his side's struggles - the Salmoners are without a league win since September 5 - Patterson is confident they will be able to beat the drop.

"We have enough about us to get out of it," he said.

"We just need to be a bit more consistent, we have patches of going through two or three weeks with good performances and results but then not maintaining it.

"But we have got a point at Runcorn and beaten the likes of Holker in the cup and you don't do that without being a good side."

Elsewhere tonight Padiham look to continue their improving form when they entertain Burscough at the Arbories. The Storks have won three of their last four to climb to seventh in the table.

Barnoldswick Town are also in action when they host Abbey Hey. Barlick have also rearranged their Macron Cup second round clash with Charnock Richard which was twice postponed last week. The tie now takes place on Thursday at the Mossie Park (7.45pm).

Meanwhile, Nelson's first division trip to Daisy Hill last night was called off due to a waterlogged pitch.

The Admirals are back in action tomorrow night in the Macron Cup second round when they welcome Prestwich Heys to Little Wembley.