Kelvin Davis backs himself to lead Hednesford Town promotion push

The former Southampton goalkeeper was appointed on Wednesday following the departure of Gavin Hurren. 

He and assistant Danny Butterfield were present for the Pitmen’s 1-1 draw with Northern Premier League title rivals Hebburn Town in midweek.

Hednesford currently sit second in the standings on goal difference ahead of a trip to strugglers Hyde United this weekend, and Davis is aiming to add promotion with the Pitmen to his CV.

“We think we are the right guys to take the club to the next level,” said the ex Southampton hero. “We understand the ambition of not only the club, but the fans.

“We will work our socks off to try and get the best performances possible. We will not rest until we feel like we are moving the club forward further than what it already is. 

“There are some things that we would change. But with the respect that we are still joint top of the league and we are coming into a club and a team that has not fallen apart.

“Most managers when you are out of work are looking at clubs that are in trouble, where you go in and put fires out, that is not the case here.

“We have to have a short-term impact. We think we have some tools which can help them. 

“We like to think quickly because we want to compete at the top of the table and promotion. 

“We are here initially until the end of the season, and I think that is perfect for both the club and ourselves to see where we are.

“Hopefully there is a long-term relationship there to build on, because that is what I am about. I have always liked a project, to start with something and help it grow.”

Meanwhile, league rivals Rushall Olympic welcome Bamber Bridge as they look to secure back-to-back wins.

In the Southern Central Premier, 19th-placed Stourbridge visit Stamford, who are a place below them, in a crucial relegation six-pointer.

Play-off hopefuls Halesowen Town travel to Needham Market - who they are level on points with - for what will be their first game in two weeks as they look to play catch-up.

“If you can’t get the best out of your players at this time of the season then you shouldn’t be in the job, that is the same with the footballers,” said boss Russell Penn.

“We all want promotion, to play higher, better contracts, there shouldn’t be much motivation. The league table is clear to see, if we hit the target we want, then we will be okay.”

Elsewhere, in the National League North, fourth-placed Kidderminster Harriers go to play-off chasing Darlington looking to return to winning ways.