LEAGUE DIV ONE
DUNSTON UTS manager Chris Swailes has hailed his players as they close in on the Northern League Division One title.
It has been a historic season for the club after their run to the FA Cup fourth qualifying round saw them beat the likes of North Ferriby United and Chester, before succumbing to National League neighbours Gateshead.
But it is in the league where Swailes’ side have really impressed.
They have one hand on the title after losing just three league games this season and could secure the club’s first league championship since 2005 with a win at Penrith next weekend.
The campaign has been a surprise for Swailes, but he is now hopeful that they will get their hands on the trophy sooner rather than later.
He said: “The target before the season was to finish as high as we can, but we had a good pre-season and I felt confident.
“There was a danger that the FA Cup run could cost us, especially losing Michael Hall and Liam Thear to long-term injuries.
“Those two lads are big players for us, but it shows just how well the likes of Andrew Grant-soulsby, Jack Elliott and Scott Heslop have done to make up for their loss.
“We always knew we would be better than last season’s tenth-place finish.
“We knew that we didn’t need to add much to the squad and we only added three or four players, but all of them have done a fantastic job for us.
“We have worked with a small squad – to a man they have been brilliant.
“To do it with five games left would speak volumes for their character and attitude.
“Every game that goes past will add to the pressure, so we want to get the title wrapped up as soon as we can.”