Hitchin Town Football Club
Founded 1865, Reformed 1928
New opponents 4: Hednesford Town
Wednesday, June 23 2004
By the time Hitchin meet Hednesford Town in the Southern League next season, they could be facing a team making a strong bid for promotion.
Despite a poor league campaign last season, Hednesford lifted the FA Trophy, surprising everyone by beating a rampant Canvey Island at Villa Park. But the underlying feeling at Hednesford was one of disappointment, hence manager Barry Powell was axed just days after the club's historic win.
New player manager Chris Brindley, who netted the winning goal at Villa Park, took over from Powell, but faces a tough task to keep his Trophy side together. "I've spoken to all of the players and I'm hoping most of them will stay. I'm also aware some are certain to attract interest from other clubs," he said.
Hednesford have already lost experienced players Steve Anthrobus, Darren Simkin and Stuart Ryder.
Hednesford spent six seasons in the Conference between 1995 and 2001, but since then, they have failed to make a concerted attempt at regaining their status. Last season, they finished 20th but beat Aldershot and of course Canvey on the way to winning the FA Trophy. For part of last season, former Canaries' striker Nathan Lamey was playing for Hednesford.
