The final furlong of the season is upon us. Our visit to Chorley represents our last fixture in the Vanarama National League North until we contest the playoffs.
With the Shaymen three points into the playoffs and with Salford and Darlington facing each other on the final day, we go into the trip to Victory Park playing for a high finish which could enable home advantage at a key period in the bid for an immediate National League return.
Opponents Chorley sit in the tightest possible position, outside the playoff places on goal difference to Salford with an inferior ten-goal swing meaning all three points are vital for the hosts to join Billy Heathβs men. Chorley supporter Barry Lock is positive his side can make up the groundβ¦
How do you feel the season has gone for Chorley?
It literally all depends on Saturday. We finished eighth last season so playoffs were simply the next stage, the improvement. If we make the playoffs, itβs gone well. If not, itβll be really disappointing. But we know weβre still outsiders having to better Salfordβs result, and having to watch Stockport who are two points behind us.
What have you enjoyed about the teamβs performances this season?
Weβve looked impressive for the most part, our style of play has improved in my opinion β weβre a better side than last year. Bar a few bad results here and there, weβve been fairly consistent and when weβve lost a game, weβve tended to respond well. I like the character the lads have shown.
Which has been your favourite game?
The stand-out for me was a game we didnβt win, but it sure as hell felt like it. It was FC United away, back in February. We were 3-0 down at the break and somehow came back to level the game at 3-3 and take a point. It again shows the character of the team, and you never know β that point could help us into the playoffs by the end of the weekend.
The reverse fixture in January at The Shay finished 2-1 to Halifaxβ¦
We were unlucky but I remember we didnβt really take the game to you in the first half. I think that was what lost us the game. We pulled one back with a decent header with about 20 left but couldnβt threaten an equaliser. Weβve not been bad away this season either, but hopefully we have enough at home to get the win we badly need.
Who has been your player of the season?
I have to be clichΓ©d and go for our top scorer, Jason Walker. Heβs bagged 14 in the league this season and grabbed a crucial equaliser just before half time at Gloucester last weekend. A draw wasnβt ideal but his goal secured the point. Heβs become an established name in non-league and has plenty of league experience too.
Finally, Barry β what is your prediction for Saturdayβs big clash?
Iβll be positive and go for a 2-1 Chorley win. I might be sticking my head out but weβll be giving everything for those points. Iβll go for the same scorers as last week, Walker and Dale Whitham, who scored at your place as well. Iβve heard your boy Dion Charles has done well lately, so Iβll have him down to score for Halifax, but I hope we can avenge Januaryβs result.
Read more posts by Kelly Gilchrist
;
