Smith Thanks Pitmen Supporters

Following Hednesford Town’s comfortable 2-0 win in the First Qualifying Round of the FA Cup against Redditch United last Saturday, boss Rob Smith has stated how important The Pitmen’s loyal away supporters have been to their side this season.

The Keys Park outfit have had an absolutely wretched run of form in the FA Cup in past seasons, losing to the likes of Pegasus Juniors and Gedling Town, but Smith and Larry Chambers oversaw a professional away victory against the Evo-Stik Southern Premier Division side from Worcestershire and noted the strong support the players received from the fans.

‘The away support has been immense and undoubtedly drives the players on, they enjoy the support and I am very grateful for it. I think at home we have come in for a bit of unfair criticism from some supporters because the expectation levels have risen. However, away from home, the fans are always right behind us whatever the performance or score line, it’s very helpful.’

The management duo have guided The Pitmen to fourth in the Evo-Stik NPL Premier Division after ten matches and will no doubt be looking for further backing from their away followers as Hednesford drew Carlton Town in the FA Cup Second Qualifying Round on Monday. The team from Nottingham ply their trade one division below The Pitmen and Smith is under no illusions about the test they will provide.

‘The Redditch game was a potential banana skin but I thought we approached the game very professionally, we need to have the same attitude for the Second Round tie. We will have Carlton watched and prepare very seriously for the match during training. It is a game to look forward to but there is no way we will take the game lightly.’

The Pitmen travel to Nottingham to face the Evo-Stik Southern League Division One outfit on Saturday October 1st, KO 3pm, with the winner taking their place in the Third Qualifying Round where either set of fans can start to look up the pyramid and see the opportunity to cause a shock as Conference North and South teams enter the draw.