FC United striker Mike Norton has described losing out on the Evo-Stik Premier title by one point as ‘heartbreaking’ but is confident the club can join Chorley in the Conference North.
Karl Marginson’s side face Ashton United tonight at Gigg Lane, for a place in the play-off final, with both sides fighting to earn a final showdown against Fylde or Worksop Town.
Despite the anguish of missing out on champion status and being consigned to a fourth straight play-off campaign, Norton believes the achievements of the Red Rebels should not be undermined.
“If you would have asked us 18 games ago, we would have certainly took being in this position come the end of the season,” he told MM.
“To lose out on winning the league by that margin is heartbreaking but we are happy to have a shot at the play-offs.
“We are quite confident of beating Ashton but we know how tough it will be – it is such a big game and is right up there for me in terms of my career.”
The Robins will be looking to evoke revenge after surrendering a 2-0 lead to lose 3-2 to FC United last Monday but Norton says that result will have no bearing on tonight’s encounter.
He added: “That win won’t mean anything, it is just a one-off game and anything can happen.
“We just have to get on with it as usual and the gaffer will be calm as ever for the match which will relax us and get us focused for the occasion.”
The frontman, who has struck four times in his last three matches, is also hopeful of continuing his form in front of goal.
“I hope I can continue the scoring if I am on the pitch but it is just about helping the team and getting the result we need,” he said.
Image courtesy of PI ALFA via YouTube, with thanks.
