Gary Hayward pleased Hednesford come through tough start

Gary Hayward’s team sit fourth in the Southern Central Premier after dismantling Stourbridge 3-0 last weekend.

On his side’s start to the season, Hayward said: “I was disappointed with loss at Coalville, but bar that it’s OK.

“I think we’ve had the toughest start in the division. The goal is still to be up there and get into the play-offs.”

Stourbridge – who had won their first two matches before losing to the Pitmen – will look to bounce back against St Ives Town and move into the play-off places.

Rushall Olympic will aim to continue their unbeaten start to the season when they visit Hitchin Town.

The Pics could go top with a win, while Hitchin sit second-bottom and are looking for their first victory of the season.

“Last Saturday’s performance in the 6-0 victory over Leiston would rank up there as one of our best displays since I have been at the club, but we’re not getting too carried away,” said boss Liam McDonald. “We’ve put ourselves into a good position with the start that we have made to the season, but there are some tough challenges to come and a busy weekend with two games in quick succession.”

Manager Alex Meechan has challenged his winless Stafford Rangers side to make their home a fortress ahead of a visit from fourth-placed Matlock Town.

He said: “Matlock are a strong, organised side, but we drew against Grantham at home on Tuesday and want to build an unbeaten run at Marston Road.”

Kidderminster Harriers could move into the National North play-off places with a win against Chester, who are unbeaten in the league so far.