ADIE Mander has targeted nine points from Bromsgrove Sporting’s Christmas games as they look to step up their title ambitions in the Midland Combination Premier.

The Rouslers go to Castle Vale JKS on Saturday (3pm ko) before taking on ground share rivals Earlswood on Boxing Day (11.30am ko) and entertaining Pilkington XXX on December 28 (3pm ko).

Bromsgrove are on a high after Saturday’s 3-2 win over runaway leaders Brocton, and while they trail by nine points and have played two more matches, Sporting’s manager is confident they can mount a challenge.

They are in decent form after winning five of their last seven matches.

“Saturday’s win was fantastic,” said Mander. “We let in a couple of sloppy goals but the players worked very hard and they took their chances.

“While there is still a chance mathematically we will be trying to win the title.

“There is still a lot of football to be played and the team is on a high.

“We’ve got three tough games coming up over Christmas but I want nine points.

“If we can do that we will end the year on a high and have momentum going into 2014.”

Lewis Clarke was the hero for Sporting against Brocton ,his brace proving pivotal as they came from behind twice.

Mark Bellingham’s goal was also set up by the marauding Clarke.

Mander said: “Lewis did very well and took his goals very well too.”

Sporting have bolstered their goal-scoring options by signing Nathan Jones, who had previously scored four goals in six games for Bustleholme.

He was on the bench at the weekend but Mander expects him to make an impact.

“Nathan is a big strong lad who can hold up the ball and score as well,” added Mander.

Bromsgrove are also waiting to talk to left-back Lee Dimmock after putting in a seven-day bid to Lye Town at the weekend.

But overall, Mander is happy with his squad.

“I am not really going to add too much in terms of players now, it’s more about working with who we have and working out my best team.”