MANAGER Jamie Vermiglio says Chorley are gearing up for one of their biggest games in their recent history as they aim to topple rivals Stockport County in the National League North.
The Magpies suffered a defeat in an eight-goal thriller against Altrincham on Saturday but Stockport also lost meaning that only one point separates the top two sides ahead of their battle at Victory Park on Saturday.
With three matches left, heading into the weekend the Chorley boss knows that their fate is in their hands if they win all of their remaining matches.
Vermiglio said: “It was really frustrating but we were able to turn a negative into a positive as Stockport did not extend their advantage at the top.
“It is another game chalked off and the ball is still in our court.
“Matches don’t come much bigger than this as I think it is more important than our FA Cup games or even the recent play-offs.
“It is really exciting and is a great opportunity for the club.”
Vermiglio hopes the Magpies fans come in their droves to cheer on the players on Saturday and create an intense atmosphere.
He said: “We are up against it when we face them as they should be top of the league as they have the resources and when you go there it is like a pressure cooker.
“I am calling for the people of Chorley to come and get us over the finish line.”
Vermiglio has a few injury concerns ahead of the big match but is hopeful some can return.
He said: “Matt Challinor has a hernia problem and we hope he can come through.
“Josh Wilson is a doubt after having a problem with his ribs.
“Alex Newby was in his second game back and will add to the squad.
“Dale Whitham has come back from a loan spell and that gives us another option.
“Most people will look at the statistics and know our strongest team. I know that means people know the system but our players know their roles and what they have to do.
“We have been very successful this season and Stockport have beaten us twice this season and we have not scored against them but this is a one-off game, like a cup final and we are going to relish the occasion.”
Vermiglio insists there is a real rivalry between the two clubs and there will be a personal one when former striker Darren Stephenson returns to the club looking to fire his current side to promotion.
He said: “Darren is a player we liked and looked at him in the mid-season but he has really developed some form and we will have to keep him quiet.
“There are other links between the two clubs but we want to be the ones that get three points in the massive game.
“Stockport are in good form and are having a great end to the season but we want to be able to knock them off their perch at the top of the table.”
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