Next few games will be crucial for Birmingham City - Stuart Parnaby

Dec 7 2007 By Colin Tattum, Birmingham Mail

STUART Parnaby says Birmingham City have got their tails up and they are keying in on a crucial stretch of games that takes them into the New Year.

Victory at Spurs ended a run of seven defeats in eight games. And, after Saturday's trip to Newcastle United, Blues tackle Reading, Bolton Wanderers, Middlesbrough and Fulham.

"It was fantastic," said Parnarby of the 3-2 Spurs thriller. "The atmosphere was as good I've experienced since I've been here, which was brilliant to see.

"I think it has just lifted everyone. And if you got to White Hart Lane and get a win, it's a big thing. The boys were buzzing.

"Hopefully we can step on now and we have got a period of games where we would probably fancy ourselves against a few of the teams.

"In January we have a tough period, so if we can get points on the board these next few weeks then that's what we need I think."

In January, Blues play Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea in a three-game league sequence. That is why Blues are targeting this month.

"Against the Man Uniteds and Arsenals you can try and do as much as you can. Whatever happens, happens," said the defender. "Not that it doesn't matter, but it's not so much of a big thing.

"Whereas the teams around you, it's massive when you play them. They are the make-or-break games when you think about it.

"I'd say we fancy ourselves against most of them around us now. The confidence is in the team."