Runcorn Linnets’ manager Paul McNally full of praise for his players after Bacup win with Matty Atherton singled out

Jan 12 2012 by Luke Reddy, Runcorn and Widnes Weekly News

PAUL McNALLY is full of praise for his Runcorn Linnets team, especially the weekend’s two goal hero Matty Atherton.

Linnets recorded their fourth win in five outings when they battled past Bacup Borough by two goals to one on Saturday.

Atherton swooped on 75 minutes to net the winner and his second on the day. A reward for hard work according to his manager.

McNally said: “He had an opportunity after 15 to 20 minutes to score an open goal. He took it around the keeper but tried cutting back onto his right foot and missed. So he made up for the earlier hesitancy and he was a relieved man in the dressing room.

“He’s been working hard over the last couple of games so he deserves his goals. I’m made up for him.

“He’s not been as prolific this year and I think he knows that. He’s been focusing on that perhaps a bit too much but you know what strikers are like, they score one and end up getting a hat full, so hopefully that’s the case.”

Atherton’s goals fired Linnets up to eighth in the North West Counties Premier League and helped McNally’s side build on recent wins against AFC Liverpool, Silsden and Winsford.

The Linnets’ boss is thrilled with his side’s run of form.

“It’s very pleasing for the lads, especially after the run we had in November,” added the 34-year-old. “But the lads have rolled their sleeves up and we can only be happy with it.

“All runs come to an end but we’ve got to keep it going now. The lads are really focused and I don’t really have to say much to them.

“All of our lads want to be here and want to play for the club, we’ve got a great set of lads.”

McNally expects to find out when goalkeepers Damien Eastham and Richie Mottram can return to action this week, when the pair undergo tests.

A trip to 12th placed Colne awaits Linnets on Saturday and the boss is aware of the threat caused by a side who like Linnets, have a number of games in hand on those above them.

“They’re all local lads who know each other and some of them have played together for a long time,” added McNally. “It’s going to be a very tough game against very committed players who keep going for 90 minutes. Colne are sitting mid-table but should be in the top four or five from what I’m hearing.”