Hednesford Town boss Rob Smith was still evidently furious about his sides poor start to their vital clash with FC United of Manchester on Saturday at Keys Park, which, following a spirited second-half performance, ended 2-1 to the visitors.

1228 supporters turned out to watch what was undoubtedly two evenly matched teams fighting for promotion but within fifteen minutes The Pitmen found themselves two goals down after twice nodding off at set pieces.

Smith stated that the team need to cut out the individual errors and rued a start which must frustrate all football managers when a game plan has to be abandoned so quickly.

‘Once FC United scored the first goal it changes everything, they were then on the front foot and all the planning goes out of the window. It was the worst possible start and effectively cost us the game.’

The Pitmen have two training sessions this week to recover and prepare themselves for yet another huge game, this time a high pressure meeting with third-placed and resurgent Chorley FC in Lancashire.

‘It is on the pitch next week that we need to cut out the schoolboy errors and get us in a big game. The pressure is now on. We are not playing well and have to get results and quickly. I’m confident that will start against Chorley.’

Despite his obvious frustration at Saturday’s result Smith was keen to reiterate his call to the supporters of Hednesford to attend the final home and away games of the season to support his team as they look to reach the play-offs for a third year in succession.

‘Saturday’s result has increased the pressure on the lads but the supporters can help them by travelling up to Chorley on Saturday and continuing the fantastic away support we always get.’

Any supporters interested in attending Saturday’s game (3pm kick off) should visit the forum at www.HTFCSA.co.uk for more details or contact Ken Leese at the Travel Club to book a seat on the coach on 07935 723290.