Non-league previews: Belford takes responsibility for Stafford's poor run

The Rangers were beaten 4-2 by fierce rivals Hednesford Town on Boxing Day, and slumped to five points adrift from safety in the Northern One West.

The defeat was their third in a row and seventh in the league since Belford took over after Dave Cooke’s departure in late-September. 

Hosting fellow strugglers Hanley Town on New Year’s Day for another local derby, the Boro boss is hoping for his side to turn things around quickly as they seek to escape trouble at the foot of the table after relegation from the Northern Premier division last season. 

Asked if he believes Stafford find themselves in another fight for survival, Belford said: “Yes, I think you have to accept that we have got to start winning games of football.

“There have been lots of pats on the back for the ways we have played, lots for the amount of effort and commitment the players are showing, but we have got to win games of football and that is down to me.

“That is what we will try and start doing against Hanley. We knew the task that we were taking on, I think we have got a better squad of players, but now there are no excuses, we have got to start winning games.

“I have to take responsibility for the last week and more of football.

“I couldn’t have asked for any more from the club itself, the chairman and the board, the supporters and my staff.

“The fans have been unbelievable and I can’t thank them enough for supporting the lads and me. There will be nobody other than myself, my staff and the players to try and get a result.

“We have got to string some together instead of getting them here and there, and have some consistent form to get ourselves out of the situation we are in.

“We have been in every game and contested each game, regardless of the result, and we have become a far more competitive team. But, that now has to turn into wins. I understand that more than anybody.”

Meanwhile, Hednesford Town visit local rivals Chasetown, who sit fourth in the standings, five points adrift of top spot.

New Hednesford boss Gavin Hurren said his team's win over Stafford "showed character".

Adding: "I know what this football club means to the people and we would get this support every week if we can start performing on the field. 

"We have got the players and when they want to turn up and put a shift in, they are the results you get. Credit to them, I am the first one to stamp down on them and be a bit harsh, and tell them a few home truths, but also the first person to say well done and I am immensely proud with how they performed."

Elsewhere, in Northern One Midlands, Darlaston Town entertain Boldmere St Michaels and Sporting Khalsa host Lye Town, who parted ways with Craig Nicholls on December 27

Higher up the pyramid, in the National League North, leaders Kidderminster Harriers entertain basement boys Rushall Olympic, while in the Southern Central Premier, Halesowen Town host Bromsgrove Sporting and Stourbridge welcome Redditch United.