Moore insists anything is possible for Hebburn Town ahead of Ashton United test

Hebburn Town manager Daniel Moore has laid down a challenge to his players as they look to build on a remarkable first half of the season.

Little was expected of the Hornets after they struggled throughout the second half of their first ever season in the Northern Premier League Premier Division - but they have surpassed all expectations to thrust themselves into the race for promotion into the National League North.

As it stands ahead of Saturday’s home game with play-off contenders Ashton United, Moore’s men are sitting in third place in the table - but could end the weekend at the summit if they can claim all three points and leaders Hednesford Town and second placed FC United of Manchester are beaten in their respective fixtures with Stockton Town and Warrington Town.

Moore has warned of the threat posed by Ashton ahead of Saturday’s meeting at the Trustmark Group Stadium - but has stressed his players are full of confidence as they look to continue their bid for a historic promotion into the second tier of the non-league game.

Full of confidence

He told The Gazette: “Ashton are a very strong side and they went to FC United and were really good. What Steve, their manager, has cursed is their consistency because on their day they can beat anyone in this division, anyone at all. We have got to expect they will be at their best, wanting to get back into the play-offs and their front four are one of the best in the division.

It’s going to be a good game, two teams having a go at each other and we just have to start again because of the gap in games. The lads are full of confidence, we have spoken to them and asked what they want to do this season. What do they want to achieve? It’s in our hands, that’s what I’ve said to them. How much do they want to prove people wrong and do something nobody said was possible.”

Moore could hand a start to Campbell Darcy after the Hartlepool United youngster returned to Hebburn for a second loan spell earlier this week - but Lucas Lowery has now retuned to parent club Gateshead after his temporary spell with the Hornets came to an end.

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