Cinderford must thrive on pressure if they are going to escape relegation this season, believes veteran scrum-half Clive Stuart-Smith.
The former England Saxon says the Foresters are at their most threatening when their backs are up against the wall and he is confident the team can bite back after defeats against Coventry and Blackheath.
Changes in the club's management structure has rattled its core during what Stuart-Smith describes as a "surreal" season.
But, like many teams, focus and stability has given Cinderford a batch of confidence coming into the new year and they have been buoyed by the approach of director of rugby Nic Corrigan.
Stuart-Smith, 31, said: "It has been a tough couple of weeks against some of the top sides in the league. We were disappointed by the last two results against Coventry and Blackheath but we are constantly improving as a squad.
"At the club we have an abundance of talent and Alex Frame and Danny Pointon are both quality scrum-halves itching to play. That competition is exactly where we need to be.
"If you are lucky enough to be playing, you need to perform to keep hold of the shirt. It is a happy, focused squad and having stability and a clear goal is only a good thing – we want to be a National One side next season"
Cinderford travel to Priory Lane this afternoon, a venue only league-leaders Ealing Trailfinders have returned from glorious – and that was by a point.
Stuart-Smith says there is no pressure on this occasion. A losing bonus-point will go far. But he doesn't mean the Foresters won't come out fighting.
He continued: "They are arguably one of the top clubs in our league and play a great brand of rugby. There is nothing expected of us except to go and do as well as we can. We're in a situation now where picking up results are the most important thing.
"Coming into a crucial period against our closest competitors, we need a win-at-all-costs mentality. Yes, the pressure is on, but it is something to thrive on.
"Cinderford always do well with our backs against the wall so as long as we remain a happy, positive camp, we are confident that our goals can be achieved. This weekend is vital but it is one part of a bigger picture."
The rebuilding starts here. There is a hole to climb out from but Stuart-Smith believes Cinderford have enough firepower to secure their future in National One.
He said: "The club has seen a great deal of change over the past few months but, after going through a period of reflection, we are now on the right path. Bristol, Gloucester and even Northampton are clubs that have been through tough times in their history.
"It is evident to see a real feeling of direction at the club that allows the players to focus on performance, rather than peripheral distractions. We have got the foundations, the management, a great bunch of players and passionate supporters who are all pulling together to make Cinderford a success."
