Pritch hails players' desire (From Northwich Guardian)

Witton Albion manager Brian Pritchard believes his players' desire to beat Ashton United was decisive

2:50am Thursday 7th March 2013 in Sport By Andrew Simpson, Senior Sports Writer

WITTON’S longest unbeaten run in the Evo-Stik Northern Premier League this season has taken them to fourth in the table.

A 3-1 win at Ashton last night, Wednesday, is their fifth game without defeat, and puts a four-point gap between them and next opponents Worksop.

It is psychologically significant, according to manager Brian Pritchard.

“Everybody was bunched up behind us, so it’s pleasing that we’ve put a bit of distance between us and that chasing pack,” he said.

“I stressed the importance of that to the players before the game, and they responded.

“We were livelier than Ashton, and wanted to win more than they did.

“There was a clear desire in my team to pick up the three points and keep our run going.”

Josh Hancock’s shot, via defender Craig Robinson, broke the deadlock before the winger crashed an emphatic finish past Ashton goalkeeper Paul Phillips soon afterwards.

When Robinson, this time with no assistance, diverted Hancock’s corner into his own net before the break the contest was as good as over.

Pritchard said: “Josh [Hancock] showed his quality.

“He’s been a bit frustrated at not scoring goals because he’s seen the boost it has given Danny [Andrews] in recent weeks.

“It was nice to take our chances while at the same time limiting what they had at the other end. We should have been 5-0 up before they eventually did score.

“We continued to carry a threat though in what were tricky conditions.”

Josh Glover filled a vacancy in defence left by Danny Meadowcroft’s departure to Colwyn Bay on Tuesday.

He played alongside Ben Harrison, back after injury.

However, with Glover due to spend time abroad next month, Pritchard is looking to bring in a fresh face in defence.

That is unlikely to be Paul Booth though, despite the stopper still being registered with Witton.

“We are actively looking for players all the time, not just in that position,” added the Albion boss.

“If I find somebody that makes the team better and is affordable, then that’s great.

“Danny Meadowcroft has not left this club on bad terms. On the contrary, he goes with our best wishes.

“I repeat; he asked me to stress that his choice is not related to football, but to his personal life.

“If people don’t believe that, then that’s their problem. I’d just ask them to trust me.”

To read a report on last night's game, click here: http://bit.ly/13Gt5E0