Billy Paynter has hailed the response from his Runcorn Linnets players after their recent performances.
Linnets sent a message to their playoff rivals against fellow challengers Clitheroe, last time out.
There were five different goalscorers against Danny Caldecott’s side as Will Saxon, Mackenzie O’Neill, Oliver Molloy and Eden Gumbs were on target.
As it stands, Linnets sit third 11 points behind leaders Leek Town but Paynter isn’t giving up hope just yet as he eyes a strong finish from his side.
“I asked the players to go on a run to stay within the playoffs, try get closer to Leek who have been flying since we beat them,” he told Off The Park.
“Full credit to them but the main focus is on us, can we go on a run of wins then you’ll never know. If we can finish the season strong, it’ll be a great confidence boost if we were to make the playoffs, you take that into them but we’re not going to give up first spot, there’s enough points to play for.
“The mentality is to move on (from disappointment), I thought we played well in that game (against Trafford), we missed numerous chances, a penalty, their goalkeeper was on top form and that was the only frustrating side to it but I was happy with the display.
“It was the same team against Clitheroe, one week we couldn’t score, the next we hit five. It’s great for us but more importantly, that we’re creating chances in the right spot, and Oli’s (Molloy) strike was a 30-yard screamer.”
They face a tough trip to Bower Fold this weekend as they travel to Stalybridge Celtic. This weekend’s opponents are also eyeing a place in the playoffs at the end of the season, and currently sit fifth but face pressure from the teams below with their one-point cushion.
Paynter added: “They’re a very good side, they’ve been around the playoffs and if we want to keep our distance away from them, these are the types of games that players need to stand up and be counted for.
“It was fantastic against Clitheroe but it’s gone now and we’ve got a tough game away from home. If we’re on it, we’re more than capable of matching anyone.”
[Featured image: Neil Phillip Thornton]
