Hednesford Town boss Rob Smith is determined his side will move on from the run of form that may cost them dear in the race for the Vanarama Conference North play-offs, culminating with last week’s disastrous second half showing against Tamworth.
However, the manager has reiterated how proud he is of his players and the fact they are still near the top five after a difficult season.
Smith, aware that realistically his side now need to win all of their remaining five games to give themselves a chance of upsetting those teams who have overtaken them in recent weeks, stressed that his side will keep going despite losing four out of the last five games, starting on Saturday afternoon.
‘We have discussed things and we will move on with smiles on faces. Whatever happens I am proud of the players this season, we have had a difficult year and the lads have given me everything.
‘Winning games helps and we will do all we can to win the last five. I don’t doubt the character of the players, the issue has been that we simply cannot handle key players being out to injury and suspension as other clubs can.’
There are no top flight or championship fixtures taking place this weekend, with the England game on Friday night and ensuing international break meaning as many Hednesford fans as possible are encouraged to get down to Keys Park to support the team.
After an outstanding turnout for the Tamworth match which saw almost a quarter of the total attendance made up of Pitmen supporters, another healthy attendance is hoped for.
Smith believes that, in their current position, his team will now play with some freedom and be able to relax as the underdogs which, as has been proved in the past, may see The Pitmen sneak in at the last.
‘We are very relaxed now due to the pressure being on other teams above us so that may help us play with some freedom.’
Marvin Robinson is still struggling with the injury that kept him on the bench against Tamworth last week but The Pitmen are boosted by the return of Richard Batchelor from suspension as they face an Oxford City side just one place behind in the league who will also be looking to put a run together in the final few games.
