Hughes bang on target for AFC Fylde

The wideman netted the winning goal against both Hednesford Town and Alfreton Town over the past week, leaving Dave Challinor’s second-placed Coasters just a point behind National League North leaders Nuneaton with games in hand.

Former Fleetwood Town man Hughes suffered an injury just a week before the season began but has looked back to his best in recent games.

And after taking advantage of other top teams faltering, Hughes reckons both he and Fylde are on target to achieve their goals this season.

Hughes said: “I’ve got two goals in two games, so I’m feeling good and confidence is high. It’s always nice to score but the main thing for me is to get three points every week and keep climbing the table.

“The last couple of victories have really helped morale within the squad. As a winger you want to score as often as possible but I would never pick that over a win.

“Promotion has always been our primary focus this season for the team, but on a personal level I would love to get double figures. I have eight goals already, so I’m maybe ahead of schedule.

“I’ve started to hit the ground running recently. It took me a while to get going after injury and to get back to full match fitness. Now I’m feeling good. I could probably play every day!

“We have picked up six points four days at a crucial time for us in the season. They were both scraps and we will be in games like that throughout the season.

“Teams want to beat us as they see us as one of the favourites for the title. The pitches get worse over Christmas and that doesn’t suit our type of football. It took us a few weeks to get used to that but I think we have adapted now.

“We know we are always going to have rocky patches in a season, like any other team, but the boys have turned it around and we are now bang in form.”

After those two victories on the road, Hughes is pleased to be back at Kellamergh Park today for the visit of Skelmersdale in the FA Trophy.

“The evening trips, when you are travelling for two or three hours there and back and then going to work the next morning, are a killer.

“We have a massive game next weekend against Solihull Moors and that could be our biggest test yet.

“They beat us 3-0 on the opening day. I was injured for that game and I’m sure it will be completely different time.”

DANIEL AGNEW