Bates Says Work Still To Be Done For Pools To Secure Status

A run of five games unbeaten had seen the side move up the table and have a gap of seven points above the relegation zone, but their defeat to Guiseley means they have now played a game more than the team currently 21st in Solihull Moors, writes Tom Feaheny.

“It’s game by game and I’ve not looked at a points total, we knew the importance of the Guiseley game to potentially go 10 points clear but it didn't happen," Bates said.

"I'm encouraged by the run we went on, that has given us a bit of breathing space but we all know there is work still to be done."

“A month ago and if we looked at where we would be now then I would have snapped their hands off and I hope everyone keeps going.

They are next up against Solihull Moors, knowing a ten point could could be opened up with a win.

"I can’t fault them, there’s tired bodies in the dressing room, the recovery is crucial for the players and I know how important this next game is."

Picture by Mark Fletcher