Croydon Athletic manager Jerry Scola has admitted warning his players they still face the threat of relegation.
The Rams currently sit in 16th place in Ryman Division One South, twelve points clear of Horsham YMCA who occupy the second relegation spot, but Scola is targeting another eight points to make sure of safety.
He said: "We have always said we are playing towards getting 40 points, so we need to get eight more. We know we are not safe yet and there is still a lot of work to be done to get us away from the drop zone."
The Rams have only won twice in the last 13 games, with Friday's 2-1 home defeat to Dulwich Hamlet the latest bad result, although Croydon were unlucky not to get anything from the match.
Jordan Kiffin had put them ahead in the third minute, but two goals before half time by Shawn Beveney and Stanley Muguo put Dulwich in control and despite a spirited second-half display from Athletic they held on to the points.
Scola said: "It was a disappointing result but they were always going to be difficult opponents for us.
"We started very well and then they slowly gained their way on top and were 2-1 up at half time as they are a very strong and fit side.
"In the second half we came out a far better team and did deserve to get a point from it."
Croydon's next game is away at Ashford Town on Saturday.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article