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Testing times

Mike Glendinning
27/ 2/2008

MACCLESFIELD Town have just 12 games to rescue their Football League status, and the pressure is mounting on manager Ian Brightwell.

Saturday’s 3-0 defeat to Peterborough United, their ninth loss at the Moss Rose this season, saw the Silkmen slip dangerously close to the drop-zone.

The Macc boss faces a massive battle, but he is determined to steer the club to safety.

"I’m under no illusions about what we’ve got to do," he said. "We need to come out with three points from Saturday’s game against Notts County.

"We’ve got to concentrate on the next 12 games. I’ve spoken to the players and made it clear what is expected of them, it’s up to them to respond."

Brightwell and his team have faced a barrage of jeers in recent weeks and he is calling for solidarity as Macc try to rescue their season.

"The fans pay their money, they’re entitled to their opinion," he added.

"There is a minority that feels the need to be negative, but I’m keeping the players positive.

"We’ve just got to get on with the job and stick together."