Chorley Are Right In The Mix Now Says Thrilled Preece

They closed things up at the top of the National League North in style on Tuesday night as his bloodthirsty team savagely sunk their teeth into Darlington.

After the 8-0 whitewash he admits he does get annoyed at some of the criticism levelled at the Magpies.

Preece told the club’s video player: “I said to the lads before that it was such an important night, it could take us right amongst it - and it has. Scunthorpe lost, Spennymoor lost and Alfreton drew so it’s really tight up there.

“Anything is possible at the minute. We don’t get a lot of credit. There’s a lot said about us which is upsetting at times - it would be nice for someone to give us a bit of credit now and again.

“It was a ruthless performance. I feel sorry for Josh (Gowling, Darlington manager) Losing the lad after five minutes. It was one of those nights when a lot go against you.

“Sometimes you can criticise us for not being ruthless enough this season. But in this game we were - we were brave on the ball, we were patient and we mixed it up really well.

“I’m delighted we’ve managed to get another win and get ourselves just under the top four. That’s where we want to be challenging.

He knows what it is like being on the wrong end of a hiding after listing to Rushall Olympic 5-0 last month.

The Chorley manager hopes the manner of the win will persuade fans to turn up in their numbers in the FA Trophy on Saturday when his team host Scarborough.

“Our goal difference hurt us with five at Rushall, so we’ve put that right and it is looking pretty decent,” he went on.

“I’m really pleased for the fans who turned up. It was a cold, went wintery night but it’s one they’ll remember for a long time.

“We’re looking to have a good run in the FA Trophy That performance may well get a few more through the gate! There will be a few more wishing they turned up. Everything is looking positive at the minute.”

PHOTO BY DAVI AIREY