CHORLEY will bid to close the gap on the leading pack in the Northern League when they get their Bank Holiday double-header weekend under way at home to northern raiders Penrith tomorrow.

Andrew Holdsworth’s men struggled last season, finishing down in 11th, but are riding high in fifth after an encouraging opening six games of the season.

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But they still trial fourth-placed Morecambe by 13 points and will hope to cut that gap when they host the side directly below them at Windsor Park tomorrow.

With a trip to struggling St Annes to follow on Monday there is a real chance for Chorley to collect two victories and propel themselves into a battle for top spot.

Darwen are already firmly entrenched in the title chase, with the Towers unbeaten in their opening six games to sit second in the table.

Jordan Clarke’s men finished third last season and are keen to improve on that this time around.

They make the short trip to Leyland tomorrow and will be keen to pick up maximum points to put the pressure on leaders Blackpool, who are five points clear at the top of the table.

Darwen are without a fixture on Monday.

Tomorrow’s Northern League fixtures Barrow v Netherfield, Chorley v Penrith, Fleetwood v Preston, Kendal v Morecambe, Lancaster v Blackpool, Leyland v Darwen.

St Annes are without a game.