New signing Gavin Cowan says it's time for Gainsborough Trinity to 'stand up and be counted' in their fight to stay in Blue Square North.

Cowan, who joined the club last week from Fleetwood Town, is set to make his second start in Trinity's crucial relegation clash against Hyde United tonight (7.45pm).

Gavin Cowan, Gainsborough Trinity's new signing.

The 28-year-old defender impressed on his Blues' debut with a solid display in Saturday's goal-less draw at second-placed Southport.

But the German-born Englishman has vowed to step-up his efforts to ensure Gainsborough bridge a three-point gap and climb out of the bottom three.

"We are in a battle now and everyone has to stand up and be counted for," said Cowan.

"I was pleased with my performance – it was nothing amazing but it was solid. From a team point of view, it was great for us to go there and get anything."

"Hyde will be a big game and we'll be looking for three points. We've three home matches coming up, so it is pivotal that we get points."

At 6ft 4ins, Cowan provides an aerial prowess and mobility to Brian Little's team, who are third from bottom and have leaked 52 goals so far this season.

The Trinity boss praised the centre-back's impact at the weekend and believes his partnership with Andrew Boyce could be the key to the Blues' league survival.

"I think very highly of Brian," said Cowan. "He's one of the best managers I've worked with and his knowledge in football is second to none."

Cowan began his career at Braintree Town in 2001 before moving to Canvey Island.

He joined Shewsbury Town in 2005 then had brief spells at Grays Athletic and Nuneaton Borough.

More recently, has played for Trinity's Blue Square North rivals AFC Telford United, where he made 89 appearances, and league leaders Fleetwood Town.

Now at Gainsborough, Cowan says he is ready to do his part to ensure the club remains in the division.

"I've only had one training session and played one match, but the lads have been great, they're a great bunch and have warmed to me very quickly," he said.

TRINITY: Barnes, Toulson, Peat, Davies, Greaves, Cowan, Boyce, Burbeary, Aiston, McMahon, Stamp, Beckett, Dunning, Herriott.