Bermuda Hogges skipper Omar Shakir has urged his team-mates to show more mental toughness ahead of tonight's crucial match against Pittsburgh Riverhounds.

The cultured defender, who struck a late equaliser against Western Mass Pioneers last weekend, believes Hogges must take six points from their back-to-back home games against Riverhounds – especially considering their woeful away form.

"Two wins would be a serious boost to our confidence ahead of our next three away games," said the PHC player.

"It's essential considering our history regarding away games.

"We always want to win and playing at home gives you greater confidence and self-belief.

"We have shown a greater fight and spirit this season, but it just hasn't transformed into consistent results.

"Honestly, I don't believe the feeling in the squad has changed much.

"We are disappointed because we feel we should be doing much better considering the way we started the season.

"We won't hang our heads though and we'll fight to the bitter end to make the play-offs.

"If that's not possible, as always, we'll try to improve our previous season's finish."

Hogges have yet to win on the road this season and Shakir is at a loss to explain their chronic travel sickness.

"It's very hard to put my finger on it," said Shakir.

"We really do believe we can win away from home but it's just not happened for us this season.

"The coaches have tried various things to get success but nothing has worked.

"It could simply be down to mental toughness.

"That's the one thing that separates champions from the rest, in any league or sport in the world, and we're no exception."

Hogges take on Riverhounds tonight at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 8 p.m.

Both matches will be played at the National Sports Centre.