Hednesford told not to underestimate Rangers in 'El Staffico' Boxing Day derby
Hednesford Town’s management have said they will ensure their side do not underestimate their struggling fierce rivals Stafford Rangers on Boxing Day.
You have to go back six years to the last time the sides locked horns in a competitive league match, in what was the ‘Evo-Stik Premier Division’.
Now, for the ultimate festive meeting and Northern One West derby game, dubbed as ‘El Staffico’, play-off chasing Hednesford welcome relegation-threatened Stafford Rangers to Keys Park.
Under new management of Gavin Hurren and his assistant Lee Vaughan, the Pitmen have had a mixed bag of recent results with just two wins in their last six games. But, both Hurren and Vaughan believe form goes out of the window for the clash, including Stafford’s underwhelming season so far.
"It’s a massive derby, I know what it means to the club and fans," said former Hednesford player and now manager Hurren. "I have told the team how important this game is. I feel that we are going into the game with a full strength squad.
"When it comes to derby games it doesn’t matter about form. It is about that fire in your belly, it’s who wants it more on the day. I need to make sure that our lads are on it, that is what we expect and will be demanding."
His assistant Vaughan added: "The lads will be under no illusions how much it means to the fans, club and us as management. We will let the football do the talking.
"I think if we are competitive all over the pitch then we have way too much quality for them and will be victorious."
Meanwhile, Rangers boss Dale Belford is overcoming his frustrations after Stafford conceded twice in stoppage time to lose 3-1 to Stalybridge Celtic last weekend.
Belford was less than impressed with some decisions going against his side during the game, but is hopeful of turning things around against his side's busiest rivals.
"The one thing we are is resilient and we have a really good dressing room.
"The lads are honest and hard working and that is the approach we will take into it. We have got to try and out battle them. Hednesford are a club full of talented players that shouldn’t be at our level.
"We are well aware of their threat but also their weaknesses.
"We’re not going there to make the numbers up. We are going there to win a game."
Elsewhere, Chasetown go to Hanley Town, while in Northern One Midlands, Lye Town visit Coleshill Town and Sporting Khalsa entertain Darlaston Town.
