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Next Game: Kings Lynn At Edgar Street On Saturday 21 September at 3.00pm

Wednesday, September 04, 2024

Proud manager of the week praises Needham after exploiting Hereford's weakness

Aaron Chapman was judged to have upended Seth Chambers but saved the resulting penalty
Needham Market's boss, now named National League North manager of the week, has hailed his side's "massive performance" as they beat Hereford 1-0 midweek.

The victory at Edgar Street was watched by 19 fans from the Suffolk club and comes off the back of a 2-1 win at Warrington Town on Saturday.

Hailing the "massive performance" and a "hell of a shift" from his players, manager Kevin Horlock said it could and should have been more than a 1-0 win - Jamie McGrath grabbed a first-half opener to instil belief in the side before another goalworthy chance after the break, with Jacob Lay missing a sitter and hitting the woodwork before Dan Morphew's spot-kick was saved.

"I don't think anyone would have grumbled if it was three or four, we missed a penalty, had chances, so all round it was a perfect away performance," he said, adding homework showed the Bulls were vulnerable when under the cosh from the wings.

Having been promoted last season and making improvements at their home ground, including a new stand, Horlock said: "We're making steps. We're trying to do things the right way. We're sticking to what we do, and the lads are working ever so hard so I knew results would turn around.

"They can turn around quickly in football both ways so we keep working hard and keep trying to put in performances like we have done tonight, which will inevitably get you points."

Speaking to the club's YouTube channel, Horlock felt his side showed Hereford too much respect in the first half where they dominated possession and tried to create chances.

After a half-time team talk to push his players to get on the front foot and be more aggressive out of possession, he felt the majority of the second half was played in Hereford's half.

"We looked dangerous, we looked a threat," he added.

"We landed on second balls and we defended solidly at the back. So, all round, as a manager, I couldn't be prouder."