THE door to possible promotion swung open again for Chorley after this hard-fought victory over high-riding Leek.

And wins in their two remaining games could yet see the Magpies claim a place in next season's revamped UniBond Premier Division.

The side's points total is now seven from three matches under caretaker-boss Jim McBride, and in the process they have kept three-clean sheets.

The few openings created in a flat first half were by Chorley, and they went ahead on 22 minutes. David Eatock's touchline free-kick was not dealt with by the Leek defence and the ball fell kindly for Danny Mills, who rifled a low drive past keeper Steve Hodgson from 10 yards.

Leek emerged for the second half in determined mood and gave the Chorley defence a serious examination.

Lee Bracey made a stunning near-post save from Paul Macari's shot from point-blank range before Shaun Cartwright saw his powerful 25-yard drive deflected onto then over the Chorley bar.

The Magpies always defended tenaciously with Billy McCartney and Lee Pryers outstanding.

As Leek's challenge faded in the closing stages, Lee Ashcroft got two decent efforts on target but Hodgson was equal to both

Although it was by the minimum margin, McBride's battlers were good value for this 10th home win.

CHORLEY ...1

LEEK TOWN ...0