Jay Harris: South Shields win sets the benchmark

Warrington Town midfielder Jay Harris says the Yellows cannot afford to drop below the level of performance they showed against South Shields last weekend. 

Despite trailing inside 10 minutes, Mark Beesley’s side showed their quality either side of half-time to down their full-time opposition for the second time in less than a month at Cantilever Park. 

Goals from midfield trio Stefan Mols, Matty McDonald and Sean Williams mean that Town go into this weekend’s game against Stalybridge Celtic with an impressive victory under their belts.

“That’s got to be the benchmark now in terms of our performance level,” Harris said. 

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“We were good with the ball, but the most pleasing part was everything we did off it. We showed a little bit of nastiness, a bit of grit, and more than anything, the heart and will to win was there for everyone to see. 

“Over the course of the season, it’s not been there every single game, but we know we can do it. We can’t drop below those standards now.

“Even going 1-0 behind in games, we know we have players who can create chances.

“We have strikers who can grab goals, plus the likes of Matty and Stefan chipping in from midfield. On Saturday, I thought it was the best I’ve ever seen Bohan Dixon play. 

“When the pressure is, we perform.”

Following Saturday’s victory, it was announced that joint-top scorer Connor Woods had been recalled by parent club Southport, having netted six times in 12 appearances since arriving from the National League North side. 

Despite losing a forward of Woods’ quality, Harris is confident that there are enough players in the squad who can step up in his absence. 

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“Connor was a breath of fresh air,” the 35-year-old admitted. “He came in, worked hard and scored goals – basically everything you could want from a striker. 

“Now it’s an opportunity for someone else to step up. 

“We’ve got Jordan Buckley almost ready to come back, and when Josh Amis returns from suspension, he’ll have a point to prove too. 

“All of these players are pivotal with what we want to do and where we want to go, and now is the chance for those guys to grab their chance.” 

You can read more from Jay Harris in Saturday’s matchday programme, which will be available to purchase for just £2 at Cantilever Park.