Back in October when Forfar were top of League One after eight matches, club chairman Alastair Donald joked that manager Dick Campbell had forbidden anyone from talking about a possible title challenge this season.
Well, with just five games to go until the end of the regular campaign, the veteran boss has finally changed his tune.
The Loons currently sit in third place in the table, just behind full-time Morton on goal difference and a solitary point in arrears to league leaders Stranraer.
Forfar secured another three points last week when they thumped struggling Stirling 4-0 at home and they will take a good travelling support with them this afternoon as they look to continue their title pursuit at second-bottom Stenhousemuir.
Campbell said: “No matter what happens over the next few weeks, what a season we have had.
“How do you stack it up? We have been at the top of the table the entire campaign and it looks like we have secured a play-off place.
“That was our main objective at the start of the season.
“However, with just five games to go, we are so close to winning the league, it would be disappointing if we didn’t ultimately do it.
“I was delighted with the win last week and it was good to see Dale Hilson getting another goal.
“That’s him and Gavin Swankie both in double figures for the season which I am delighted about.
“Hopefully that will continue against Stenhousemuir this weekend with the side likely to be along the same lines as last week.”
Stuart Malcolm will miss the game through suspension although Michael Travis returns from a one-match ban and Derek Young has recovered from injury with Campbell admitting he is delighted to have the “outstanding” duo back in his squad.
Meanwhile, Stenhousemuir caretaker boss Brown Ferguson boosted his roster earlier this week with the addition of former Falkirk front man Pedro Moutinho.
l There are still a handful of seats available on the Forfar supporters’ coach for the trip to Stenhousemuir, leaving the Myre Car Park at 12.30pm.
The remaining berths can be reserved by phoning 07871165689 or email david.mcgregor@forfarathletic.co.uk
The cost is £8.