CHORLEY manager Mark Molyneaux is confident his side can bounce back from their UniBond First Division play-off disappointment, writes Suzanne Geldard.

The Magpies came back from a 2-0 deficit to force extra time against Radcliffe Borough in the final at Stainton Park. But their Premier Division dream was shattered when they were agonisingly beaten on penalties.

Molyneaux knows avoiding a hangover next season will be far from an easy task. But he is confident his crop of talented youngsters can maintain their impressive form from last term.

"The lads are well and truly over what happened last season," the Magpies chief said.

"If we are honest with ourselves, Radcliffe Borough deserved to go up because they finished 12 points ahead of us.

"All I've told the lads is to take away the hurt they felt after missing out. I'm hoping that will inspire them so they can go one better next season.

"But it's going to be harder because we will be seen as a big scalp. People will expect us to do a lot better than last year and will try to stop us.

"Ossett Town, for example, had a great season two years ago and then finished near the bottom last season.

"But we're prepared for it and we want to improve on what we've done. That's our aim every year."

Molyneaux confirmed all of his current players have agreed to new two-year contracts, and he admitted the return of Chris Patterson, Bobby Jones and Phil Bayliss - who all missed half of last season through injury - will be like making three new signings.

And judging by the self-motivation of his squad, the Magpies boss should have little to worry about next season.

"Chris, Bobby and Phil have all been doing extra training because they missed most of the last part of last season and want to get fit," said Molyneaux, who welcomes his troops back for pre-season training on Monday. But already around 10 players have returned early for optional training.

"It shows how dedicated they are," Molyneaux added. "They're a good bunch of lads."

Chorley are also on the lookout for teenage stars as they seek to establish an Under 18s side, which will be run by Dave Tullock. Trials will be held tonight and anyone interested should attend the session at the club's Victory Park ground at 6pm.

Meanwhile, the club is offering supporters the chance to have the Pilling Lane Stand named after them.

A raffle is currently being held and the winner will have the stand named after them for a full season. Tickets cost £5.