Speaking to the Ipswich Evening Star, Richards said: “It is vital that we continue to make progress over the next three weeks so that we are in great shape for the first match in the Coca-Cola Championship at home to Gillingham on August 7.
“What we need is a flying start and not fall into the trap of the previous two seasons when we have taken a few weeks to get into our stride. This told in the end and we were unable to pick up enough points to gain promotion.
“If we have a bright beginning this time, we can give our supporters plenty to shout about for the whole campaign with hopefully some celebrations at the end.”