Hebburn Town boss is hoping patience will pay off

The Hornets have recovered well from a poor first half of the season, and are now unbeaten in nine league games.

Their 2-0 midweek win over Ryton moved them up to ninth spot in the Northern League Division Two table, and Oliver wants them to kick on now.

They face a tricky test against Heaton Stannington tomorrow, but with their form fantastic at home, Oliver is confident of more success.

He said: “I was pleased with the win over Ryton on a horrendous night with driving rain and a cut-up pitch.

“We had to be patient again as teams sit deep as we have so much of the ball.

“We have so many injuries that it’s all credit to the lads for their upturn in fortunes.

“We can only use Channon North in 20-minute bursts due to sciatica, so to be doing so well without him starting games is impressive.

“Young Glen Hargrave has ran his socks off up front.”

Oliver again has a number of fitness issues ahead of tomorrow’s game.

Lee McMahon missed the Ryton win and will need a late fitness test, while Ian Bickerstaff, Alan Pegram, Craig Malley and James Talbot all miss out through injury.

Brian Johnson returns, while Kyle Morris is back at the club after a spell in the Wearside League.

Oliver added: “Tomorrow will be another tight game where we will have to be patient.

“Bar the top six, most teams are of the same quality.

“Our home form has been outstandsing this season though, and top six is still our aim.”