Herbert Calls for Full Focus Ahead of Northwich Derby Clash
1874 Northwich manager Chris Herbert has called on his players to deliver their very best and urged supporters to play their part as his side prepares for a crucial derby clash with Northwich Victoria.
With both teams fighting at the top end of the table, the stakes could hardly be higher. While their rivals continue their push for the league title, 1874 are determined to secure their place in the playoffs—and Herbert knows exactly what will be required.
“For us, it’s huge—and it will be for both sides,” Herbert said. “Vics are going for the league and know they have to win this game, while we’re looking to guarantee the playoffs, so it’s massive for us as well.
“We’re doing it the hard way, whereas they can go up without the risk of knockout football. So we expect them to be at their very best, and that means nothing but our best will do if we’re going to get a result.”
The 1874 boss also emphasised the importance of the home support in what promises to be an intense encounter.
“We need our fans right behind us—non-stop noise, giving the lads that extra push,” he said. “We know what it means to them, and we’ll give everything we’ve got to hopefully make them proud.”
Despite the fierce rivalry between the two clubs, Herbert is confident his experienced squad understands the magnitude of the occasion without needing extra motivation.
“The professionalism and experience in this group means we don’t have to go overboard on what the game means,” he explained. “The lads know the job in hand.”
With just a handful of games remaining, every point is vital—and Herbert admits last season’s playoff final defeat still lingers in the minds of his squad.
“We all want promotion, and after losing the playoff final last season, we’ve definitely got a point to prove,” he said. “But we have to maintain the standards we’ve set over the last six or seven games—anything less and we won’t deserve to make the playoffs.
“This league is incredibly strong. There will be more twists and turns, so we cannot switch off from the hard work needed to get where we want to be.”
Derby matches often come with added pressure, but Herbert insists his side must not allow the occasion to distract them from their game plan.
“Discipline is key,” he said. “We need to stay relaxed, play our game, and stick to what we’ve worked on.”
At this stage of the season, however, the focus is simple.
“It’s all about three points,” Herbert added. “I don’t care how it’s done—just get the points on the board and move on.”
The previous meeting between the sides ended in a tight 1-1 draw, and Herbert is expecting another closely fought contest.
“I think it’ll be a similar type of game,” he said. “Hopefully we get a referee who lets the game flow and allows both teams to play.”
1874 will be without Dale Jennings for the fixture—a significant blow—but Herbert is backing his squad to step up in his absence.
“He’s a match-winner and gets into any team at this level, so of course it’s a big loss,” he admitted. “But that’s why we have a squad. It’s up to the lads coming in to deliver.”
There is, however, a timely boost with Scott McGowan in contention to return.
“It’s massive having Scotty back,” Herbert said. “He’s a legend at this club, and this kind of game suits him. His presence lifts everyone, and his goals could be crucial for us.”
Herbert also acknowledged the progress made by Northwich Victoria under their current management but insists his side must remain focused on themselves.
“They’ve got big-game players, but so have we,” he said. “We just need to concentrate on our jobs—it’s about us and nothing else.”
And with anticipation building ahead of kickoff, Herbert had one final message for the 1874 faithful:
“Fill the place, get the drums going, be loud, and make it as difficult as possible for the opposition,” he urged. “We’re all looking forward to seeing the green and black army out in force.”