CHORLEY FC are looking to punch above their weight this season...and their secret might have been down to a training session at Jennings Gym.

The Magpies were put through their paces on Monday night by former British, English, and WBU welterweight champion Michael Jennings and his brother Dave at the Coppull Mill site.

It was the latest part of the preparations for the new Vanarama Conference North season which kicks off on August 6 against FC United of Manchester at Chorley Group Victory Park.

Trainer and manager Mike Jennings said: “The players trained really hard.

“I expected them to be fit as they are in pre-season but it surprising how good they were and had excellent team spirit and that is what we want to see at the gym.”

The players did some circuit training and also worked on their strength and conditioning.

Jennings added: “It was about them not quitting, as with 10 seconds left you have to keep pushing on.

“It is the same with football and it should help them in the games too.”

It is a busy time at Jennings Gym as they have added Commonwealth Gold medallist Scott Fitzgerald to their ranks.

Fitzgerald, who is promoted by Eddie Hearn, is attending the gym ahead of his four-round bout at the First Direct Arena in Leeds.

Manager Matt Jansen said: “Jennings Gym was a tough workout for the lads and something a bit different.

“They want to go again through the season so they must have enjoyed it.

“It was a good bonding session for the team as well.”

On the pitch, the Magpies suffered a 2-1 defeat to Airbus UK Broughton.

Sefton Gonzales opened the scoring in the first half but the visitors hit back on the hour mark and they took the plaudits from a free-kick on 70 minutes.

Jansen said: “The weekend’s game again was very pleasing.

“Yes, we didn’t win but that’s not what pre-season is about.

“It’s about trying things and learning what works and what doesn’t along with making sure everyone of the squad is improving on their fitness ahead of August 6 when it really matters.”

Despite losing Darren Stephenson recently, there have been no new additions to Jansen’s squad.

He said: “We have had no new signings but we are looking at a couple of options.”

Chorley continue their pre-season campaign when they travel to Shawe View to face ex-Magpies player Tom Baker who is charge of Trafford on Saturday afternoon.

Next Wednesday night, they entertain Bolton Wanderers in the Harold Taylor Memorial trophy.