Neal Ardley says victory in Saturday’s Nottinghamshire Derby would give his Notts County side a massive lift.
The Magpies travel to the One Call Stadium to face sixth-placed Mansfield Town in the new boss’ first league game since taking the reins.
And, although he acknowledges picking up three points is the most important thing, Ardley says there are plenty of other reasons he wants to see his side win.
“It would be a brilliant start and get everyone smiling,” he said.
“We have to start chipping away at our target of 55 points so we desperately need to pick up three on Saturday.
“It’s more than that, though. When you come into a club you want to play a part in giving it a lift and I hope this will be the beginning of a very good relationship.”
Ardley says his players will not be short of motivation.
“I shouldn’t have to get the players up for it,” he said. “They know the importance of this and I hope the lads want to give the fans something to be proud of.
“If they feel that way then they’re going to play the best they possibly can and everyone will be a hero for the night if we get a result.
“Sometimes you can get carried away in games like this so we’ve got to find the balance between wanting to be competitive in the derby but also stopping them doing what they’re good at and expressing ourselves.”
The gaffer knows how much of an impact travelling supporters can have on the team and hopes they like what they see on Saturday.
He said: “Away fans are always that bit louder. If we take a good following they could create a phenomenal buzz.
“My main hope is that we put in a performance which makes the supporters happy and I want the boys to come off the pitch feeling every one of them has represented the club brilliantly."
Question marks remain over Kane Hemmings and Matt Tootle ahead of the match, while Ben Hall's comeback from a groin problem has suffered a setback due to an ankle injury sustained in training.