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Get set for a thriller

26/ 3/2008

HATTERS’ boss Jim Gannon believes the County faithful are in for a thrilling ride as the final stretch of the 2007/08 season approaches.

A well-deserved sixth straight win, against a disappointing Macclesfield side on Friday night, moved County temporarily to within just five points of the automatic promotion places.

Jason Taylor netted twice in front of a bumper home crowd, and afterwards Gannon was again delighted with the efforts of all of his players.

The big Irishman said: "Macclesfield created a few half-chances in the game, but my lads defended solidly and strongly all night. John Ruddy didn’t have much to do at all.

"All the lads have been on form though, there were a lot of top performances out there.

"The momentum is definitely there. All the players are enjoying every minute of it, an the supporters are going to be in for a fantastic six weeks of football now.

"The crowd were fantastic again. We were expecting around 7,000 tonight, but to see almost 8,000 in here just shows that the people of the town are starting to take notice of our recent success.

"It’s great for me personally, but I’m also delighted to have sent all our fans home happy again. I hope they all have a great Easter."

Although County coasted to victory on Friday, Gannon also felt compelled to once again appeal for more protection from referee’s after a game which saw some hefty challenges from Macclesfield.

The County boss exchanged words pitch-side with opposite number Keith Alexander on numerous occasions during the game, during which Anthony Pilkington was challenged so heftily that he ended up leaving the ground on crutches.

Gannon said: "In order for players in the lower leagues to develop, we have to see more protection from referees. I’m disappointed we didn’t see much of that tonight.

"Right from the first few minutes it was clear that the referee didn’t want to get a card out.

"The Macclesfield players were committed, but there were a number of reckless challenges out there and Anthony Pilkington is on crutches now. He’s doubtful for Monday’s game now.

"We have to accept these things though, and we’ve still got a very strong squad and players who can come in for the trip to Wycombe."

Silkmen boss Alexander acknowledged that his side had emerged second best on Friday night.

He added: "We were up against a very good team.

"We tried to battle, but on the day they were better than us and I don’t mind admitting that."