Northampton travel to Whaddon Road on Saturday to face a side who struggled in League Two last season but who currently lie in 12th place after a decent start.
"I think we can be relatively pleased with the way things have gone so far but, without going overboard, I always want more," Yates told the club's official website.
"I always want my staff and players to demand more of each other but I think we're probably in the right position for what we have done. A couple of wins or defeats can move you about the league quite quickly so it's important we cement our place in the top half and get as many points as we possibly can."
Two strikers dominated proceedings in the corresponding meeting last season as Barry Hayles and Bayo Akinfenwa both netted a brace in a 2-2 draw.