Hitchin Town Football Club
Founded 1865, Reformed 1928
Swindon a hurdle for Hay's men
Friday, December 21 2007
Hitchin face Swindon Supermarine eager to bounce back from their 0-1 home defeat at the hands of Bromsgrove Rovers.
The Canaries' much changed team may take some weeks to knit together, says manager Darran Hay, who recognises the problem of bringing so many new faces into the side at the same time. "We needed to change things and it was important to bring in new players. It may take a few games to see the benefit and we saw that against Bromsgrove."
In the first half, adds Hay, there were some nerves. "One or two lads were a little nervous. Don't forget that for some of them, this is a step up a grade and it will take time for them to settle."
Since last weekend, Hay and his team have worked on some of the things that didn't go so well. "We had a good session this week and went through some of the areas we need to improve. The spirit is good and there's a terrific team spirit. I am confident we shall see some improvements."
Swindon Supermarine have come to terms with the BGB Premier and recent results have included victories against Corby, Tiverton and Banbury. They are nine points ahead of Hitchin, although Supermarine have played five more games.
Supermarine manager Mark Collier is looking for a win at Top Field in order to climb into the top half of the table. However, he believes Hitchin could have a better second half of the season. "They have a new manager and they've brought in some new players. I wouldn't be surprised to see them have an upturn in fortunes."