On the eve of the biggest game of the season in the Evo-Stik Northern Premier Division, Hednesford Town boss Rob Smith has challenged his squad to add quality performances to their impressive points tally as his Pitmen side travel to league leaders North Ferriby United looking to cut the gap at the top to just three points.

North Ferriby currently hold a six point lead, but the Keys Park outfit have two games in hand and while aware of the quality of the North Yorkshire side, Smith wants his players to build on their strong start.

‘North Ferriby’s overall strength as a unit impresses me and they are unbeaten at home, but we have had a fantastic start to the season without hitting massive heights with our performances. That is the challenge for my players now.’

North Ferriby are leading scorers and have the meanest defence in the league but Smith believes his squad is strong and the addition of Sam Craven, signed from Boston United in midweek, and the form of Alex Melbourne proves that claim.

‘Sam Craven will give us good cover in defence and on the left and the fitness of Alex is as good as I’ve ever known it.’

The usual high number of Hednesford supporters will no doubt make the long trip to East Yorkshire hoping for a point at the very least and a strong performance to continue their superb start to the season.