New Mills joint-boss wants to see side raise standards

Dave Birch wants to see New Mills raise the standards in their FA Vase match at Cheadle Town.

New Mills take momentum into the weekend cup tie having won three and drawn one of their last four matches.

But the joint boss believes the Church Lane side can get even better and says they have wracked up the points without playing at their best.

“It was a good three points against Maine Road on Saturday,” he said. “We didn’t play great, we missed numerous chances and can play better.

“When you do that you are running the risk of dropping points. We had four glorious chances in the second half and didn't put them away.

“But we held on and it shows we have got good mental strength.

“We are four unbeaten without playing very well. It’s good we are winning ugly, but we have got to raise it now and push on.

“We need good performances as well as the win.

“We have had some tough games and are getting the points, It’s pleasing, but I’ d like to play better and be easier on the eye.

“I would take our start and we are confident going into our next game.”

New Mills travel to a Cheadle Town side who they have already beaten this season as they look to progress into the next round.

But Birch knows the previous league win will count for nothing .

“I would have liked another league game to keep the momentum going but it’s the Fa Vase, so it's a big game for the club and players.

“We have beaten them in the league last week and we will go there with no pressure,

“It is a different game this time and the league win doesn’t count for anything, they are a good physical side so it won't be easy.

“We have got momentum and we are going into the game confident.”

Birch was also full of praise for striker Benito Lowe, who played in the weekend win just hours after the shock death of father Gary.

“It is tragic news,” he said. “I was close to his dad and played for him for 14 yeras of my career.

“He was a great friend to me and my family. Benito showed real character to play, he played well and got through it.

“Knowing his dad and Benito, his dad was a winner and Benito will carry that on.”