Under Dave Morgan’s stewardship, Thackley have mounted a serious challenge to the top two in the Kool Sport Northern Counties East League Premier Division.

The boss is pleased with the progress on the field and the individual development of the players but acknowledges that there is still work to be done.

Morgan wants two more players in and some consistency from the rest of his charges.

Speaking after last Saturday’s 7-0 demolition of Nostell MW, he said: “The lads have done well and we are in a good position but when you look at the money being put in by other clubs, you have to say we would be fortunate to get promoted this season.

“The people here are working really hard to get the ground and the infrastructure right, and on the pitch the results are coming. But we have a young squad and have lost too many times to clubs below us early on.

“Paul Maltby, at 30, is our oldest player and he is fresh in that he is inexperienced at this level.

"Robert (Morgan’s son) is certainly our most experienced player but the majority of the rest are very early 20s and still learning.

“We have done all right for goal-scoring, with Luke Hudson, Matt Mathers, Nicky Matthews and Matthew (Morgan’s other son) all rotating up front.

"The defence is solid and we have a bit of depth there as well.

“The problem area for us is midfield - we have some good lads but with injuries and suspensions, you are always trusting to luck. That is why I’m looking to strengthen and it will be experienced lads that I bring in.

“That is the key area that can take control of games and win games, and that’s why you really need a lot of guile and experience.”