Harriers head to Alfreton for a Friday night clash in National League North…
By Matty Paddock - 02/12/2022
Posted 3 years ago
RUSS Penn insists Harriers will keep their heads down and continue to work hard ahead of Friday night’s trip to Alfreton.
Penn’s charges have won two of their last three outings but, overall, have found a consistent run hard to come in the league as of late.
Only more hard work and determination can change those fortunes, according to the gaffer, who says away form in particular can be the catalyst for a few brighter days on home turf.
Speaking ahead of Friday’s game at the Impact Arena, he said: “We’ve struggled at home this season, and it’s not a nice atmosphere at Aggborough at the moment and we’ve got to quickly turn that around.
“The only way we can do that is by backing things up away from home, so we go to Alfreton and we’re looking forward to it, it’s a good challenge and a good test.
“We’ve got to keep our heads down, keep working and I’m sure it will turn.”
Penn has brought in some new faces in recent weeks to help boost Harriers and bring them back to their best.
The likes of Paddy McLaughlin, Reiss McNally and Joe Leesley have all made a difference, and the Aggborough chief said it isn’t just faces that have had to change as the group search for results.
He added: “You question everything when you’re on a bit of a run, but that will be every manager up and down the country when things aren’t going so well.
“So, yes, we’re looking to change things, whether it’s shape or personnel, we’re looking for that trigger to get things back on track.”
McLaughlin is likely to be in stronger contention to feature against Alfreton, with the boss revealing the on-loan man had suffered with illness last week.
Shane Byrne (back) remains a doubt while Nat Knight-Percival (ankle) remains unavailable for the trip. Alex Penny (hamstring) is a longer-term absentee.
It will be one of the tougher outings of the term for Harriers, with Alfreton always a challenging prospect, not least on their home patch.
“I respect Billy a lot,” Russ said. “They are what they are and they are very good at it.
“We’ve got to go there strong and physical, and look to play as well.
“We’re going there to win the game and that’s what our aim is.
“We have got to react from last Saturday and we’ve got a cluster of games over the next eight days where we’re looking to get some good points and get back in the mix of it.”
Kick off on Friday night is at 7:45pm.
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