Toolstation NCEL Division One
AFC Emley manager Darren Hepworth
Darren Hepworth has hailed his AFC Emley players for winning all seven of their league games in November.
The magnificent run has sent Emley hurtling up the table and into second place and two points behind leaders Penistone Church.
Emley host Westella & Willerby this afternoon.
Hepworth told Non League Yorkshire: “I’ve always said that it is about getting some momentum.
“I have been so impressed with the lads and they deserve a lot of credit. Like any team we have to deal with injuries and suspensions and because lads have had to come in, we have proved that we have a really good and deep squad.
“In November we had eight games. We were unfortunate against Cleethorpes, the game we did lose, but we have won seven and importantly they were all in the league.
“That’s why we’re sitting in a stronger position in the league. We’re not looking too far, we’re taking it a game at a time.”
Hepworth has also added his voice to the debate about transfer regulations and use of social media in player approaches.
He can speak from personal experience as Emley were forced to report at least one club last season for an illegal approach for star striker Ash Flynn.
“Social media has its good points, but it certainly has its bad points,” Hepworth added.
“One thing is you can’t avoid is the fact that managers and players are so accessible now.
“Players tout themselves, they put their little ‘decisions’ message out there. It makes me chuckle.
“It is part of the game and I think we have to accept it, to a certain extent. It is hard to control it.
“I’ve had players approached over social media. The league has clear rules about the seven days rule and everyone should respect it.
“The truth is they don’t. When it happens to you, it is clearly frustrating.
“In the end I know it happens so I invest my time in creating the best environment possible for my players.
“If they are approached (illegally), that’s two things. One is that it is a compliment because you clearly have good players. Two is that if it turns their heads, they (the player) is probably not right for you anyway.”