PITCHING IN NORTHERN PREM

HEBBURN Town defender Dan Groves believes his side are benefitting from a consistent defensive setup as the Hornets prepare to take the next step in their promotion push.

After keeping a fifth consecutive clean sheet in Tuesday’s 4-0 home win against Dunston UTS, Daniel Moore’s men travel to Liversedge tomorrow afternoon before hosting former Northern League rivals Ashington just 48 hours later.

Ahead of a busy weekend, Groves reflected on an impressive run of form that has taken his side into second place in the table. He told the club website: “It’s just a bit of consistency and managing to keep the same four on the pitch to be honest.

“A while back we had a few injuries dipping in and out here and there but it’s just trying to keep that consistency and allowing the lads at the front keep doing what they are good at.

“We will prepare as we have been, take Liversedge first, see where we get to, try and get the three points and go on to Monday.”

Dunston will hope to bounce back from defeat against

Hebburn when they face Brighouse Town in a ‘home’ game at Consett’s Belle View.

Leaders Stockton Town can take another step towards promotion when they entertain Carlton Town and Newton Aycliffe can further their own play-off push with a win at Sheffield.

Ashington will check on the fitness of several players ahead of their home game with Bridlington Town and Consett will aim to move on from their heavy midweek defeat at Sheffield when they visit North Ferriby.

Morpeth Town are back on home soil after a difficult week that saw Craig Lynch’s side fall to comprehensive defeats against leaders Radcliffe and play-off contenders Macclesfield.

Another side with their sights on the top five will visit Craik Park tomorrow when the Highwaymen host second placed Warrington Rylands.