Mark Beesley praises Yellows character after Chorley win

Warrington Town manager Mark Beesley says he can’t commend his players enough for the way they held on to win 1-0 at Chorley and extend their fine start to the new National League North season.

Connor Woods’ first half goal was enough to seal all three points as the Yellows secured their third win in four matches to start the season.

An improved second half display from the hosts meant Beesley’s players were forced to defend manfully at times, but they held on to record their second clean sheet in succession.

“They’ve been terrific results this week, two clean sheets and two different performances,” he said post-match.

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“In the first half, we played really well and opened them up. I was critical at half-time that we didn’t make the most of it because we knew they’d change and come at us in the second half.

“They changed shape and caused us problems, but I must mention how pleased I was with the character of the lads – they all dug in for each other.

“It was an outstanding performance, in terms of will to win and people throwing their bodies on the line. The centre-halves were outstanding, and to get two clean sheets was outstanding.

“We were tired bodies today and you could see we were hanging on a little bit. Sometimes you’ve got to hang on, dig in and get bodies on the line, and I can’t praise them enough for that.”

Beesley was able to call upon two new faces in his squad, with Bolton Wanderers midfielder Arran Pettifer and South Shields forward Dylan Mottley-Henry joining the club on loan ahead of Saturday’s game at Victory Park.

Both were given second half cameos and Beesley admits it is a real positive having more options to call upon as their fixture list intensifies.

Reflecting on their performances, he said: “Dylan is a good player and he’ll give us that option now.

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“We’ve had the same front three through injuries. Matty and Dec haven’t really done a pre-season and we’ve been flogging Isaac and Connor a little bit.

“He [Dylan] gives us that option and can play anywhere across the front, so I’m pleased with that one.

“Arran came on and showed what he’s got, a bit of energy and legs. It was tough for him to come on because we were under pressure and didn’t get on the ball or create chances.

“We’ll get to learn to be a little bit better on the ball so we’re not absorbing so much pressure.”