Lovatt hails 'character in abundance' as Dudley Town aim to build on historic win
A proud Matty Lovatt heaped praise on his Dudley Town who have shown "character in abundance" - and will look to follow up one of their biggest-ever victories tomorrow.
The Robins thrashed Studley 11-0 midweek, scoring seven of those goals after the break, with each of their forwards getting on the scoresheet - including four for Matt Funge.
Ahead of their trip Abbey Hulton United, who sit second in the Midland Premier League, Robins boss Lovatt lauded his side for a performance to remember.
“We were delighted,” he said. “We challenged the lads at half-time, we knew we had an opportunity to create some history.
“We made a bit of a pact, and to go and blow Studley away like that, we are over the moon. I am proud that the lads are showing everybody their potential and ability.
“We pressed right until the last minute. It would have been easy to switch off, but everybody was fighting for each other.
“We showed a lot of character, we are showing that in abundance recently, and we are delighted with the position we are in.
“Considering we have started the last two seasons poorly and notoriously finished strong. Hopefully we are in a decent position where we can really kick on.”
Dudley sit fifth in the table, eight points adrift of top spot, and face an Abbey Hulton side unbeaten in their last nine league games.
Asked if he hopes Dudley can challenge at the top end, Lovatt added: “Absolutely, and we need the lads to believe that as well.
“But, we are seeing it as a marathon. We know what we can offer in the latter stages of the season.
“We are full of confidence, but aware that after a result like Studley, we may have a target on our backs.
“We will make sure that we work extra hard to ensure that we come away knowing we did all we can.”
Meanwhile, Brocton host Lye Town while Tividale visit 1874 Northwich. Stone Old Alleynians host Highgate United and AFC Wolverhampton City go to Studley.
Midland One leaders Gornal Athletic welcome Cradley Town looking to stretch their unbeaten run to 14 games in all competitions.
Bilston Town entertain Chelmsley Town while Smethwick Rangers travel to Heather St. John’s, and Sutton United go to Ingles while Wednesfield welcome Leicester St Andrews.
Hellenic Division One leaders Bewdley Town visit Redditch Borough while in the Edward Case Cup second round, Stafford Town go to Runcorn Town.
