Hebburn Town boss calls for focus after big win at Northallerton Town

The Hornets made a fast-paced start in the blustery conditions at the Calvert Stadium and took a fifth-minute lead with a neat finish from midfielder Michael Richardson.

The hosts got back on level-terms 11 minutes into the second half with a goal from former Ryhope CW striker Michael Rae – but Bolam’s side eased to all three points as a Graeme Armstrong penalty and an Olly Martin brace helped them to a 4-1 win.

There was further good news for the Hornets players as they left the pitch to learn that promotion rivals Consett had fell to a 3-0 defeat at Newton Aycliffe.

The two results mean that Hebburn have opened up a nine-point gap to the fourth-placed Steelmen – but Bolam insisted that his side must remain focused as they look to secure a second promotion in three seasons.

He told The Gazette: “We are confident that we can go up and that is key – but we can’t take our eye off the ball at all in this league.

“We have to stay focused because we have some tough games between now and the end of the season.”

Bolam praised his players for their performance in challenging conditions in North Yorkshire.

And the Hornets boss picked out his attacking players for special recognition as they solidified their side’s place as Division One’s top goalscorers.

He said: “They don’t concede many goals, they are well organised and they tried to frustrate us.

“But I think, when teams do that, it’s just a matter of time that the quality we have at the top end of the pitch will break through that.

“You do need some luck in keeping players fit and healthy, but I am really pleased with them at this minute in time.”

All attention now turns towards next Saturday’s FA Vase Fifth Round tie at Longridge Town as Bolam looks to learn the Hornets into the quarter-final of the competition for the first time in their history.