NEWCASTLE Jesters general manager Mike O'Connor knows the next month is critical to the team's season.

After a seven-game losing streak was ended on Wednesday night with a victory over Manchester Storm, the GM sees a chance to not only consolidate in eighth spot and a place in the play-offs, but also overtake Bracknell Bees.

"Ayr beat Nottingham last night, which not only gives us a five-point lead over Nottingham but puts us six points behind Bracknell," he said.

Jesters return to Manchester this weekend and have games against Bracknell coming up, while the Bees have tough ties against Sheffield and Belfast.

"They have a pretty hectic schedule and we are setting our sights on Bracknell," said O'Connor.

Rob Wilson is also expected back on Tyneside next week after his father's death in America, and could go straight back into the team if his fitness is up to scratch.

Team spirit is high after the 3-1 away win in Manchester, with new boys Aaron Cain and Corey Lyons playing well.

For the Jesters to repeat their feat of last season, when they finished bottom of the Superleague but reached the play-off final, the team would have to start improving now.

Netminder Bill Russell may make his debut tomorrow at Bracknell after Tommi Satosaari picked up a groin strain on Wednesday, while Craig Binns is likely to play despite a niggling knee injury.