NELSON boss Steve Cunningham is brimming with confidence ahead of what could be a crucial Christmas period for the club.

The Admirals picked up their first Hallmark Security League First Division point since September 30 when they earned a credible 1-1 draw at second place Litherland REMYCA on Saturday.

And with Saturday's home game against New Mills the first of three festive matches in a week against the sides currently 16,17th and 18th in the table, Cunningham is convinced his side can bridge the eight point gap to safety.

It doesn't look great when you look at the table but I have so much belief in the lads now.

"If we can string a couple of wins together then I know we will pull clear.

"I have no doubt that we will get out of the relegation zone, the desire, effort and the commitment of the lads has been great.

"We have a real togetherness now and you can see the improvements. We have played the top three in our league now since I have come in and there is nothing for us to fear,"

Nelson lost 1-0 to leaders Silsden, beat Prestwich Heys on penalties in the Macron Cup and picked up a valuable point at Litherland.

Cunningham added: "It was a great result for us on Saturday, we could easily have won the game.

"It was obviously our first point for a while and the lads are not used to that, it is about building up confidence and that is coming through now.

"We are two games unbeaten and you have to start a run somewhere so hopefully we can strong a few more results together.

"We have only brought in three new players so it essentially the same squad that has been here all season and it is 100 per cent good enough to climb the table.

The talent and ability has been there all season but now we are starting to get the confidence levels up and the lads are no longer used to losing.

"When we beat Prestwich Heys in the cup, the togetherness in our dressing room was great to see.

"The lads all had smiles on their faces and were singing songs after the game.

"We want more of that now, I just wish it was Saturday every day because I am really enjoying the games at the moment."

Nelson entertain New Mills this weekend in a run of fixtures that also includes clashes with Bacup Borough and Chadderton and represents a chance for the Admirals to pick up further points against sides in the lower reaches of the table.

But Cunningham is not focussing too much on the league positions of his opponents.

"I don't think it matters," he added. "We have played the top three and done well so we are confident whoever we play at the moment."