Hednesford Town manager Rob Smith has warned they will have to be on their guard against Workington Reds this afternoon.

Smith admitted, when they have played Reds in the past, they have been tough clashes – and he is expecting no different today.

Both teams have had mixed starts to the season with Hednesford still to register a league home win and Reds struggling on the road.

But the FA Cup proved successful for both teams with Reds defeating Newcastle Benfield in a replay on Tuesday night.

And Smith hopes his team can continue their form that saw them beat Tamworth 2-0 at home.

Smith said: "Matches against Workington have traditionally always been tough.

"Although they have had a mixed start to the season, they are a team that can cause problems and we must be on our guard today if we want to claim all three points.

“After putting in a really good performance against Tamworth in our last game at Keys Park, it was disappointing to follow that up with a loss in midweek at Mickleover Sports.

"I shall, once again, be looking for a response from the team."

Jed Davies and Callam Mendez-Jones are the main injury doubts for Smith but goalkeeper Josef Bursik will be available after returning from England Under-19 duty.

Reds boss Dave Hewson was set to welcome back experienced striker Jason Walker after he has served a three-match suspension.

But there were injury doubts surrounding Conor Tinnion, who has been struggling with a knee problem.

Sam Smith is still not ready to make his return and Hewson and joint manager Lee Andrews were leaving it until as late as possible before deciding on their team.

One name sure to be straight on the teamsheet will be goalkeeper Aaran Taylor, who came in for praise off Hewson after he pulled off some great saves midweek.

He said: "If you look at general play he’s saved us, as he does time and time again.

"You take it for granted from him sometimes but I stand by the fact that I think we have got the best goalkeeper in the league and the best in the area and he proves me right week in, week out."