Non-league previews: Hurren says Hednesford have leaders Widnes looking over their shoulder but admits title is a 'big ask'

Hednesford have reeled in the runaway table toppers, cutting the deficit to just seven points thanks to an incredible 14-game unbeaten run.

The Pitmen's last league loss came days before Christmas and they have kept 10 clean sheets since the start of the new year. 

Moreover, Keys Park has become a fortress with the Pitmen unbeaten in their last eight home games.

Ahead of hosting Trafford tomorrow, Boss Hurren - who was appointed as manager last November - heaped praise on his side who will hope for their sixth win on the bounce. 

"If we hadn’t been on the run we have then Widnes would have won the league weeks ago," he said.

"I do think they are looking over their shoulder, but it is a big ask. We need to win every game.

"Hopefully Widnes will drop points and we can get maximum. But, for us from where the club was, it has given us something to play for.

"We got the train moving and had all support and have gone after it. It has been really enjoyable and that’s what we do it for.

The fans have gone from being a little bit dull about things to now very happy.

"The lads now know what is expected from them. They are just driving their own standards. There are some fantastic players individually but now collectively we are looking like a team. 

"We have worked really hard and the lads are getting their just rewards .We have given ourselves an opportunity to make the play-offs and they are breaking all sorts of records, but we still have to put the hard work in. You can’t rest on your laurels.

"What will be will be regarding results but everyone is working as hard as they can to get maximum points."

Elsewhere, Stafford Rangers return to Marston Road, hosting Runcorn Linnets. The Rangers have enjoyed a swift rise up the standings to 13th since Neil Kitching returned to the helm and sit seven points clear of the relegation zone.

Meanwhile, play-off contenders Chasetown will look for their third league win in a row at Stalybridge Celtic. The Scholars occupy the final play-off spot, but are seven points clear of Avro below.

In the Northern One Midlands, Darlaston Town will look to follow their impressive win over play-off contenders Worcester City with victory against league winners Quorn. The Citizens sit three points adrift of the play-offs with local rivals Sporting Khalsa one place below. Ian Rowe's side welcome Corby Town to the Aspray Arena.

And, strugglers Lye Town who sit seven points adrift from safety welcome 17th-placed Coventry Sphinx.