Chorley boss pleased to reach victory target

9:58am Wednesday 23rd April 2008

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There is a good deal more optimism among Chorley's fans as the Magpies round off a traumatic season with a home match against struggling Bridlington Town on Saturday.

Manager Tony Hesketh, who had apologised the previous week for the team's poor showing in their defeat against Rossendale United, steered the side to the sixth league win he had said weeks ago that they needed to ensure UniBond League survival.

Their survival is now assured whatever eventually happens to Newcastle Blue Star who look set to remain in the league after rescinding their resignation.

Saturday's encounter could yet be a huge game for Bridlington who may need to beat Chorley to guarantee their survival.

They are fighting to avoid the bottom relegation spot along with Woodley Sports and Radcliffe Borough.

There were only two points separating these teams after last weekend although they were all playing midweek matches.

Hesketh said: "I was well pleased with everyone, especially three players I could have left out after the Rossendale match.

"We had slipped into a losing mentality, so it was good to end the Radcliffe hoodoo."

When he came back to the club as manager in February he promised to keep the team in the UniBond League and after the euphoria of his opening win over Mossley he said the team would need six more league victories, which he has achieved.

Now he wants to end the season on a winning note, which would be quite something in view of the fact that Chorley have failed to beat Bridlington in the last seven meetings.

l Mick Telfer, one of the heroes of Chorley's run to the FA Trophy quarter-finals in 1976-77, will present the Supporters' Club Player of the Year award after Saturday's match.

Chorley director Kevin Charlton will host the KC Couriers award presentations.

Soccer legend Sir Tom Finney will be among the VIP dinner guests at Chorley's second Golf Day at Shaw Hill on May 15. Teams wishing to enter the golf tournament and the dinner should contact Magpie chairman Ken Wright on 07970 653464.

Junior team Chorley Wanderers JFC are looking for new players for next season. Anyone who can help should ring Steve Fisher on 07828 591207.