As 1874 Northwich begin the busy festive period, Herbert has challenged his players to remain professional as they look to continue to close the gap at the top of the league.
When asked for his message to the playing squad ahead of the first of three fixtures this week, Herbert said:
“It’s quite simple, be professional. We know we have the squad, we know we have the fans backing us. We just need to get the momentum back, we can feel it is nearly there.”
“This month reminds me of the first 6 games of the season. If we can come out of it relatively unscathed we will be I a real strong position. We are ready for the challenge this month brings.”
First up for Herbert’s Greens is a trip to Newcastle to face Stone. After a battling victory in the reverse fixture earlier on in the season, the ’74 boss expects no difference this afternoon.
“We are going to Stone with a strong squad.”
“I expect Stone to be 4-1-4-1 direct in to their big striker against us, and try and make life difficult for us, and try for the 2nd balls in and around him.”
“We have to be prepared for that and find the counter to it. We have worked on it in training and hopefully we have our own way of attacking them and getting success from it.
“We have to be savvy with our play and be patient. It will come if we stick to the plan.”
One player who has had an immediate impact since joining the club has been forward Eden Bailey, and Herbert was quick to heap praise on the youngster for his start to life at 1874 Northwich.
“Eden is giving us exactly what I expected, that’s why we have tried so hard to bring him in with us.”
“He will score goals with the way we play and he has certainly hit the ground running and fitted straight in the changing rooms with the lads.”
“I’m sure the fans have taken to him already, and 4 in 3 is a great return so far.”
Finally, ahead of kick off this afternoon, the ’74 boss had this message for the fans.
“The travelling fans have been brilliant for us this season, we need that atmosphere everywhere we go.”
“The players and staff are loving it and long may it continue, we need it loud today to push the lads on.”
“Hopefully you can help us take 3 points back home.”