The maths for Tauranga City United are simple. A 4-0 win on Saturday will see Duncan Lowry's side leap-frog North Shore United into second place in the table and grab promotion to the Premier League.

So it's no surprise that 'composure' has been the buzz word on Links Avenue this week as they prepare to line-up against Mangere United for their final Northern League First Division game of the season.

Four is the magic number - Tauranga City United coach Duncan Lowry spells out the task facing his side this Saturday. Photo: Bob Ricketts.

The seemingly impossible task of scoring 10 goals in two matches became a tantalising possibility last week as United thrashed bottom-club Ngaruawahia 6-0 – a victory that could have been heavier but for some wayward finishing.

For their part, Mangere's campaign is over, and with a seventh-placed finish guaranteed, the South Aucklanders can be proud of their efforts after an impressive run to the semi-finals of the ASB Chatham Cup.

But Saturday's clash is all about how United approach the challenge, and with Lowry set to name the same starting XI that thrashed Ngaruawahia last weekend, the focus will be on the men charged with getting the goals they so desperately need.

One such player vital to Tauranga's plans is centre-forward Colm Kenny, and despite the fact the Irishman has had little game time in recent weeks, Lowry insists he has faith in his big number nine.

The situation at the top of the Northern League First Division.

'I don't think he'd seen a football in three weeks,” admits Duncan, 'so I took him off after an hour. He put four chances over the bar, but with all due respect, he fires well for us and has scored 12 goals for us this year”

'It's all about composure – that is the difference between a very good centre-forward and an average centre-forward.

'Anyone – centre-halves, left-backs, right-backs – can score goals, but it takes that little bit of composure to be smarter than the goalkeeper. I would rather see the ball trickle over the line than tear a hole in the net.”

Few coaches in New Zealand display more passion on the touchline than Lowry, but this weekend, that passion will need to be matched by his players if they're to reach the promised land of the Premier League.

Lowry has complete faith in striker Colm Kenny. Photo: SunLive.

Key players:

Jordan Culpepper (central midfield)

The Taumaranui-born midfielder will be a pivotal player for United this weekend. Often the link man between their defensive base and the front men, the 27-year-old poses a threat in front of goal and is a strong character on the pitch.

Jerahl Hughes (winger)

More often than not, Hughes provides the key that unlocks opposition defences. The former Crystal Palace man has terrorised Northern League defences this season, and is the league's leading goal scorer with 19. A constant threat from either flank and a natural finisher.

Colm Kenny (striker)

The Irishman provides a vital outlet upfront for Lowry's side, bringing strength and determination to United's forward line. His ability to hold the ball up and bring others into play could be crucial on Saturday, and don't be surprised to see him on the scoresheet either.

Tom Pamment (goalkeeper)

With all eyes on United's forwards as they go in search of goals, stability at the back will be crucial, and the composed figure of Pamment will have a part to play. An experienced stopper whose calm approach has a positive impact on the defenders in front of him.

Tauranga City United take on Mangere United this Saturday (September 26) at Links Avenue, Mount Maungnaui. Kick-off is at 2pm.

Jerahl Hughes is the league's leading goalscorer this season. Photo: SunLive.