Shrewsbury Town boss Paul Hurst wary of a Blackburn Rovers backlash
Paul Hurst has warned of a potential backlash as his unbeaten Shrewsbury Town side host Blackburn Rovers tomorrow.
Town are League One’s surprise package so far – three points clear at the top – while Rovers were the bookmakers’ favourites for promotion at the start of the season.
A crowd of around 7,000 is expected for the clash at Montgomery Waters Meadow, and Hurst is aware the 1994/95 Premier League champions will be smarting after losing 1-0 at home to AFC Wimbledon last time out.
When asked if they are the biggest club in the division, he said: “From my generation, I think about Blackburn being in the Premier League with Alan Shearer and Chris Sutton and winning the title. They probably are.
“They haven’t got the points they would have wanted to yet but, in terms of individuals, they are right up there – possibly ahead of everyone else.
“I was a bit disappointed to see they lost last week because I am sure the message there will be to put that right.
“We are just looking to continue the run – fingers crossed for more of the same, but we will need a big effort for that to be the case.”
Blackburn have sold out their 1,500 allocation for the game, and Hurst is expecting the Town fans to do their past and provide a fine atmosphere.
On how the blue and amber faithful compare to supporters at his previous club Grimsby Town, and Rotherham United during his playing career, he said: “Not massively different, in truth.
“None of them are what you would class as big clubs, and I don’t mean that disrespectfully.
“In terms of numbers, they are not in the tens of thousands – but they can certainly make a noise and play their part.
“They are quite a patient crowd, and we’re raising their expectation a little bit now.”
Hurst has plenty of options at his disposal, including top scorer Stefan Payne who is fit after suffering a cut to his head at Oldham Athletic last weekend.
Bryn Morris and James Bolton, who have been nursing knee injuries, are both back in training too.
“The team has been settled, and that’s great,” said Hurst.
“If we can stay fully fit, I will have some major decisions to make over these next few weeks.”
He added: “At the minute, we have been on the right side of results but I am very conscious that could go the other way. We will try and enjoy it, and keep demanding that work ethic.”
