Pitchero Non League

Simon Burton

....shown the hallmark of a top side this season – one that can grind out results even when below their best.

Town have made a strong start to the campaign in the league, sitting second in the table as the half-way mark is approached. And they ensured progress to the Second Round of the FA Vase with a battling 2-1 win over Formby last Saturday, despite a below-par performance.

Burton admits his side enjoyed their share of good fortune in that game, but says their ability to win games when off-colour is something to be proud of.

“Good teams can play poorly and get results,” he said. “That’s what we can do. “We’ve tightened up defensively in recent weeks, and we’ve got pace and goals in the side. That makes us hard to play against, hard to beat.

“We didn’t play particularly well against Formby, especially in the first half. They deserved to lead the game, and we had to go a little more direct in the second half in order to exploit their lack of pace at the back.

“But we got through. That’s the main thing. It is a bit harsh on Formby, who played well, but this is cup football and the thing is to make sure you get your name in the hat for the next round. We did that, and that is credit to our lads.”

Town will face a trip to Winsford United in the next round of the Vase. and Burton admits there will be an extra incentive for his side, given the way the sides’ last meeting turned out. The Town boss was incensed by a challenge which left midfielder Scott Burton injured in the goalless draw last month.

“There was a sour taste after that game,” he said. “Maybe that will serve as an extra motivation, but our lads are usually well motivated for Vase games anyway.”

Before that, Town face a trip to Squires Gate in the league on Saturday, before visiting AFC Liverpool on Wednesday. “The league is our bread and butter,” said Burton.

“We’re in a good position, and we want to keep it that way.”

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