Non-league previews: ‘It has been a pleasure to watch’ says Hednesford boss Hurren on incredible run

When Hurren took the reins in November last year, the Pitmen sat 14th in the standings.

But, now after an incredible ten game unbeaten run that includes seven wins, Hednesford sit third and nine points adrift of leaders Widnes.

Hosting fourth-placed Congleton Town tomorrow for the first of four home games in a row in all competitions, Hurren is full of pride after his side’s remarkable form. 

“The circumstances when coming into the football club were that there was a lot of work to be done, and there still is,” he said.

“We have worked really hard on bringing in reinforcements and working on off the ball shape and attacking.

“The lads have taken everything on board, they are working harder than ever, driving their own standards and in some of the games it has been an absolute pleasure to watch.

“In the last ten matches there have been some exceptional matches, but you are only as good as your last game so it is really important that we keep the run going, and there is no bigger game than on Saturday.”

Under the new direction of Craig and Amanda Gwilt, it is no secret that the club is aiming to secure promotion to step three non-league football as soon as possible.

And, having now cemented themselves within the play-off places, it looks increasingly likely that Hednesford will get a shot at promotion.

But, the league title is still within their sights.

Boss Hurren added: “The club in pre-season would have said they wanted to win the league, but for whatever reason we weren’t quite there.

“When I came in with Lee (Vaughan), it was a big ask. 

“Over the past couple of months we have got the train moving and picked up a couple of results.

“We have gone from around 15th to being in the play-offs, so it is now really important that we finish the season strongly. We have ten massive games.

“It is really pleasing for me to know the football club having played there and now going back and managing, the relationship we are building as one is all driven from the owners and it is a really nice feeling to be part of it.”

Meanwhile, Stafford Rangers welcome Wilton Albion while fifth-placed Chasetown visit Atherton Collieries. 

In the Northern One Midlands, Darlaston Town travel to Corby Town, Sporting Khalsa visit Loughborough Students and Lye Town entertain Sutton Coldfield Town.