It's good to be back home - Whild

Redditch United manager Gary Whild is delighted to finally have a home match after a run of six straight away games.

Saturday's Blue Square North meeting with Blyth Spartans is the first game at Valley Stadium this month and Whild knows his side have to make it count.

"When you have got a team travelling the distance they are you want to get out of the blocks quickly," he said.

"If we can get another three points on Saturday then things are looking a lot better for us."

After the embarrassment of the 8-0 thrashing at Fleetwood Town a fortnight ago, Whild's young squad have bounced back superbly.

After winning at Leigh Genesis in the FA Trophy, they won 2-1 at Solihull Moors on Tuesday night to lift themselves out of the relegation zone and two points clear of danger.

"Nobody wants to be associated with a result like that. Everybody was embarrassed and down," said Whild. "But I said to the lads that the reaction was important and they've reacted in the best possible way."

Redditch had winger Matty Blair, son of former Villa midfielder Andy Blair, making his debut at Solihull.

He was brought in following James Dance's move to Blue Square Premier club Kettering Town.

Dance caught the eye of the Poppies coaching staff when he scored in the Reds' 1-1 FA Cup fourth qualifying round draw at Rockingham Road last month. And Whild said that Dance left with his blessing.

"He deserves his chance," said Whild. "We've got a bit of a reputation for bringing young players here and giving them the opportunity. That is good for the club.

"James deserves his opportunity. And I'm sure he can progress."

Coverage of Redditch United v Blyth Spartans as part of Sport on Saturday (28 November, 1400 GMT) on BBC Hereford and Worcester.