IT seems you can set your clock by Worcester City's end-of-season demise.

The first whiff of summer and bang - off the boil they go.

It's the St George's Lane equivalent of Groundhog Day but no laughing matter for John Barton who after three defeats in four has suddenly seen a prized top three spot revised to fourth, more likely fifth and if they're not careful, sixth again.

The impressive form of recent months has withered away leaving a pale imitation in its place though the effort and commitment is still there.

Barton admits he's at a loss to explain the dip in form but young Liam McDonald could be the man to re-ignite City.

McDonald helped City find the right gears following his introduction to the side at Dover Athletic at the start of January and could yet prove a catalyst for the remaining three games.

His great strength is his ability to get the ball and keep it moving. He keeps it simple but also has a trick near the box and an eye for goal.

Record signing Jai Stanley is working hard but, bar odd flashes, has yet to seize the midfield baton he took from McDonald.

While a wonderful player to watch with his skill, touch and technique, Stanley has yet to utilise it to the benefit of the team on a consistent enough basis. At times he's over-complicating matters in City's midfield, getting caught on the ball or squandering possession with a loose pass.

Saturday's clash with Eastbourne Borough is one City cannot afford to lose and with McDonald fresh after being substitute for recent games, he could provide the injection of creativity Worcester are crying out for.

Adam Wilde certainly needs a spark after re-adopting his enigmatic tag of late. A superb goal and display against Weymouth persuaded Terras chairman, Ian Ridley, to put in a substantial offer for the winger but his form has tailed off since.

It seems when Wilde plays, City play, and getting the best out of him will be Barton's big task for the final three games. Crack that and City could yet avert their end of season slump.