HEDNESFORD Town No2 Lee Vaughan says the Pitmen are delivering on their pre-season promises.
Second half goals from Ahkeem Rose and Montel Gibson made sure of the points at Keys Park against Stocksbridge Steels on Saturday.
The result leaves Hednesford in fourth place ahead of Tuesday’s home clash with Hyde.
But Vaughan said the team needed to up their game after a ‘sloppy’ first half on Saturday.
He told the club’s official YouTube channel: “It was a really professional second half.
“We started the game really sloppily, and we were glad to get them in at half time, to be honest with you.
“It was quite sloppy and lethargic. We didn’t move the football quickly enough. We didn’t press well enough. We didn’t do a lot well enough.
“But what a great response. When we scored, the crows didn’t half back us. They were loud, and it was great.
“We wanted to fly out the blocks, which was something we didn’t do. But I don’t want to be negative because we put in an excellent second half performance.
“In the second half, we were more efficient, tidier, but also what changed game was the substitutes. that’s what we want. Players coming in and affecting the game – livening it up a little bit.
“We always looked at this period, and thought, if we can really push on up there and get to the Christmas period then we can be in and around it. Like we said, we would be.
“I think we’re starting to back up what we we’ve been saying. We are in and around it.
“On Tuesday, we’ll understand Hyde’s weaknesses and their strengths. But it’s really basic. Can we affect the game, how can we play?”
RUSHALL Olympic earned a 1-1 draw at Gainsborough Trinity.
Kian Ryley netted for the Pics with a spectacular opening goal, but Will Lancaster headed a leveller for the Lincolnshire side.
But Rushall owed their point to keeper Jake Davies-Manton who pulled off a string of saves to make sure Pics claimed a point.
Rushall boss Ian Long told the club’s official website: “It’s a real positive for us, certainly a point won, rather than two lost.
“The lads were tiring towards the end. They were out on their feet. Y
“Kian’s goal was good as we’ve seen this season. It was a great strike, I’m chuffed for him.
“That’s five he’s got now, so he’s our leading goalscorer.
“As for Jake. I can’t fault him. He’s a young lad, but he’s been faultless.
“I hope it continues because it was unbelievable. There’s no pressure on him as young lad.”
