Carden's simple message as Warrington Town welcome high-fliers

AS they bid to avoid a second home defeat in four days, Warrington Town’s players have been told to get back to basics by manager Paul Carden.

At the very least, he wants to see his side play with more belief this evening when they welcome high-flying Hereford to Cantilever Park.

Having been beaten 2-0 by struggling Oxford City on Saturday, Town face a tough task against a Bulls side currently second in the National League North table and unbeaten away from home this season.

And putting all tactical talk aside, Carden says the most basic of footballing principles has to be Yellows’ foundation as they look to remain clear of the relegation zone.

“It has to be that way. We can’t look at it in any other way,” he said when asked if having another home game so quickly after the weekend’s disappointment was a positive thing.

“We’re playing against a strong side who had a great result on Saturday, so they’re second in the league now.

“They’re in good form and know how to win away from home, but we’ve just got to be much better than we were on Saturday. We’ve got to play with more belief.

“The only way you turn it round is by sticking together, working as hard as you can and playing to your strengths. That’s how it’s got to be on Tuesday.

“We can go on about tactics, formations and things like that, but the biggest thing is our pride and showing what we’re made of.

“Don’t be that player letting your team down and if everybody is doing that, the collective will be there and we’ll win more than we won’t.”

Carden admits handing defender Peter Clarke and striker Josh Amis their first starts since recovering from separate injuries will be a consideration tonight.

Clarke came off the bench on Saturday for his first appearance since undergoing knee surgery, while club captain Amis made his third consecutive substitute appearance.

“Sometimes it’s needs must,” Carden said.

“Clarkey will probably tell you he could have started the day after his operation knowing him, but they come into your thoughts on the back of Saturday.

“Josh gives you that focal point and Clarkey gives you that organisation and leadership, which you’ll never not need.

“We’ll have to weigh a few up – there’s been a bit of a bug this week and a few lads were carrying it.”

Tonight’s game kicks off at 7.45pm.