1874 boss Chris Herbert has hailed the professionalism of his side, after a 1-0 away win against a very impressive and effective Brocton Town side, as the Greens look to prepare for a tough Emirates FA Cup fixture away at Longridge Town.
Played in tricky conditions, Tuesday nights fixture showed a different side to Herbert’s squad, as they dug in and came away with the three points. Herbert was quick to praise the adaptability of the squad, as well as the strength in depth that came off the bench.
“Although it is not good for the nerves, it was really good that we have shown that other side to our game.”
“These lads are a tough bunch and they can adapt to these kinds of tactics and know how to dig in and be resolute under pressure. They know we have the quality in our squad to go and get goals when needed.”
“These traits are so important if you want to challenge for honours.”
“The whole squad are starting to understand that they are all a huge part of each game as I explained to Jack McKean and Matty Williams who moved to the bench for this game.”
“It was all about how they affect the game away from home in the second half when there are tired legs on the oppositions team and it worked perfectly with Jack setting up the goal. This is what we want from everyone when they get their chance.”
One player that has impressed in the early stages of the season has been Mark Jones, who has resumed a position in central midfield for Herbert’s side. Jones, who made his 250th appearance for the club on Tuesday night, continues to show his importance both on and off the pitch as the club aims to bounce back from relegation.
“Jonah is a machine, it’s testament to how he looks after himself away from the pitch.”
“As I’ve said before, he sets the tone of the game with his aggressiveness in the air and on the floor when needed, but always in the right way, fair and hard.”
“He still has years left in him. He is vital to us.”
Tomorrow afternoon brings 1874 Northwich’s first fixture in the preliminary round of the FA Cup since 2021, and with it they come up against a Longridge side fresh from an 8-0 drubbing of Colne. Chris knows his side will have to be their absolute best to get a result come 5pm.
“You have to be a good team to score 8 goals and keep a clean sheet at any level. They are coming in to this weekend with huge confidence, and so they should, they have started the season in unbelievable form.”
“If we are not at our best we will struggle. We set high standards and we expect us to keep these high standards week in week out, and we have to be right at it Saturday if we want to progress in the FA Cup.”