Stone plays down Doughboys' play-off chances as top two head for the Dog & Duck

But his view could all change in the course of the next week or so, as the Doughboys play host to two of the best sides in the league.

Saturday sees second-placed Belper Town head to the Dog & Duck (ko 3pm), before long-time and runaway leaders Carlton Town arrive in Northamptonshire a week later, and if Stone's side win those, then there is no doubt they will be promotion contenders.

Indeed, a win over Belper this weekend would see Borough move to within just two points of the Derbyshire side.

The Doughboys are unbeaten since November 22, winning five and drawing two of their past seven games, and it is a run that has seen them climb up to seventh place and to within just two points of the top five.

But Stone is refusing to get carried away by his side's upturn in form, and is wary of how quickly a team's fortunes can change.

"It was only eight weeks ago that we were just outside the bottom three, so to start talking about a play‑off push now would be silly," said the Doughboys manager.

"We’ve been in really good form and the lads have done ever so well, but the next two games are against the top two.

"The pressure is on them as they’ve been up there all season.

"We’re going to approach those games the same way we have recently – give the best account of ourselves and see where it takes us."

Belper, who have lost three of their pasr four league games, were beaten 2-1 at home by Corby Town last weekend and Stone says he and his players will go into the game with belief, but there is nobody getting carried away at the Dog & Duck.

"We have confidence at the moment, but not arrogance," added the Borough boss.

"We’ve learned that you’re only a couple of bad weeks away from people saying you’re poor again.

"So we will stay level‑headed, concentrate on the next game, and try to get a positive result."