Hitchin Town Football Club
Founded 1865, Reformed 1928
Northwood game is an early 6-pointer for Canaries
Monday, October 10 2005
Just 56 days after comprehensively beating Northwood at Top Field, Hitchin travel to Chestnut Avenue on Tuesday (October 11) in desperate need of another victory.
When the Canaries beat Northwood 4-2 at Top Field, thanks to a hat-trick from new striker Thomas Hayes on his home debut, optimism soared. A few days later, Hitchin made it two wins from three games, but since August 20, Darren Salton’s men have not enjoyed a three-point haul. And with no wins in seven games, Hitchin need an upturn in their fortunes if they are to pull away from the danger zone.
Hitchin haven’t kept a clean sheet all season, which is clearly worrying Salton and his number two Ken Gillard. But the Canaries management team has made efforts to shore up the back line, adding Leon Townley and Stuart Hammonds, both experienced central defenders, to the squad. Both are expected to be included for the trip to Northwood. Jonathan Mills is also available after his one match suspension.
Hitchin’s hosts are bottom of the table, while the Canaries are in 18th place. Northwood have lost eight of their 10 league games, and have defensive problems of their own, having conceded 26 goals already. They have had a change of management since Hitchin’s win at Top Field and Colin Payne is now in charge at Chestnut Avenue.