Harrogate Town AFC

Watch the Gaffer's pre Hartlepool interview here…
 


The Gaffer on the squad buying into a change of system…

I think we've been solid whilst at the same time, I don't think it's really inhibited us going forward. We've created plenty of opportunities to score and we've taken to it well.

On the lunch time kick-off against Hartlepool this Saturday…

I like the lunchtime kick off. I think everyone gets out of bed and it is not long to have to wait until football. Plus if you win, I'm sure supporters have more time to celebrate after. We're looking forward to the game and we know Hartlepool will bring with them a partisan crowd. They were amazing at their place and in the game that we played at our venue a couple of years ago in the FA Trophy, it was a good atmosphere too.

On the Hartlepool crowd having a big influence in the reverse fixture…

I've always said it, crowds play a significant role in the performance of teams and when they're right behind you, it does make a positive impact on the team's performance. I think that game was particularly difficult and the timing of goals didn't help in terms of spurring on their supporters as well, but they deserve credit for their role in that day too.

I think there's more excitement for any player playing in front of partisan crowds and we've got a growing fanbase which is part of the excitement of being involved in a club like this. We've probably come from a low base in terms of a fan base and numbers but it's growing and I think there's a younger, youthful support that are supplementing already that core group, which is exciting.

On how he feels Hartlepool have done following Dave Challinor's exit in November…

Dave was really successful with them and he had his group of players that he brought to the club. Sometimes you see a dip after that, being the integral figure that he was, but Graham has come on board and I think he's a shrewd appointment because he's a really knowledgeable football man and he's got a very calming presence. So yeah, he's certainly had a good effect on the club.

On the key things to naik this Saturday…

We've got to make sure that we show the same passion without getting too excitable or stressed. We've got to manage that stress in games but I think the last few games, they've shown us that the players are working up hopefully a bit of momentum in the style of play.

If we can keep composed, it will create chances and if we can keep composed at the back, hopefully we will reduce them to fewer opportunities to score. It's a game that we're really looking forward to. I think it's not too far for them to travel either, so it should be a good game.

#ProudToBeTown