Play-Off Pressure Heats Up For North And South Hopefuls

The semi-final stage is set as eight sides are one step away from a place in the final.

The National League North title went to Stockport County on the final day - so all eyes turn to runners up Chorley to see if heartache can inspire.

Jamie Vermiglio’s men welcome Altrincham, the league’s top scorers, in what is sure to be a sensational game.

“We just have to play our game,” said Alty manager Phil Parkinson. “As we said, we know it will take a really good team to stop us.”

The other side of the draw is just as interesting.

Brackley, beaten finalists last season, welcome free-scoring Spennymoor Town - Jason Ainsley’s side getting the better of Bradford PA in their midweek Eliminator.

The National League South season reaches its climax - but who can handle the play-off heat?

Woking will be glad they are here. Since Torquay took the title, their league form has nosedived but Alan Dowson is well aware this is a totally different ball game.

“We have known for a while it’s the play-offs and that’s what we’ll be ready for,” he said. “The last few games count for nothing - we know what we have got to do.”

Wealdstone are in town but their Eliminator victory at Bath City game at a cost.

Inspirational goalkeeper Jonathan North is out after being rushed to hospital after an incident during their excellent victory.

Manager Bobby Wilkinson said: “Togetherness is key and so is our family.

“Losing the best goalkeeper in the league doesn’t help us but we are ready for part two.”

The other semi-final is just as intriguing.

Welling, with one of the best home records anywhere, welcome Chelmsford City.

Rod Stringer is looking to avoid play-off heartache for a third year running but they have their work cut out against the Wings, a club galvanised since a mid-season budget cut threatened - and failed - to stunt their progress.

National League North play-off semi-finals:
Chorley v Altrincham
Brackley v Spennymoor Town

National League South play-off semi-finals:
Welling United v Chelmsford City
Woking v Wealdstone