Buckley up for local derby

Non-league preview by CHRIS LYNHAM

PAUL Buckley is urging his Chadderton side to give their fans a Boxing Day bonus by beating rivals Oldham Boro in Vodkat North-West Counties League Division One.

Tony Mills’ Boro side sit in eighth position, three points ahead of their neighbours but having played four more matches.

And Buckley, whose side enjoy home advantage, believes it is crucial his charges begin to close the gap sooner rather than later.

He said: “This is an early opportunity to make up some lost ground, so it takes on even more significance.

“The derbies are always tense affairs and tend to be close. Anything can happen, a freak goal or a refereeing decision can turn the fixture on its head.

“You always want to come through this game unscathed because it is a horrible feeling to finish up empty-handed.

“The supporters enjoy the tradition of meeting at this time of year.

“We haven’t played for a month because of the postponements so the lads are probably going to feel it, especially in the second half.

“I have told the lads all I can ask is that they go out there and have a right good go. They have to give 110-per-cent.”

Both sides go into the game without key forwards. Talisman James Curley serves a one-match ban for Boro, while Chadderton’s Ryan Fagan is suspended for three games.

Mills revealed that heading home with no points is not a scenario he is willing to consider.

He said: “We always look forward to these occasions and this will be no different.

“Losing is simply not an option — it does not even enter my head to be honest. We are in a positive frame of mind and want to continue our good season.

“The form book definitely goes out of the window on derby day. Everyone is revved up because there is more to this fixture than the others. A little extra spice.”

Mills will be joined on the sidelines by new assistant coach John Lynch, formerly of Bury’s academy.

MOSSLEY make the short journey to Curzon Ashton on Boxing Day looking to maintain their title challenge in Evo-Stik League Division One North.

The Lilywhites, who are five points clear of Skelmersdale, having played six more matches, will check on the fitness of strikers Sam Hind (ankle) and Sam Madeley (knee).