AS SILSDEN’S grip on the North West Counties League Division One title grows stronger, manager Danny Forrest is backing his new strikeforce to continue plundering goals – despite the absence of the prolific Joe Gaughan to suspension.

Gaughan had scored 28 times in 27 games this season before his ban for two successive red cards. But local lad Chris Wademan has been on a scintillating scoring run since Christmas and the team have recently added experienced forward Aidan Kirby.

Forrest said: “Chris has been flying. I think he had ten goals in 11 or 12 starts before the bad weather and the postponements. We paired Chris and Aidan up top on Saturday (in the 2-0 win at Alsager Town) and they were dangerous.

“I’m really pleased with how that partnership went and hopefully it will develop in the next few weeks, especially as we move into these last 13 games of the season.”

The bad weather had delayed Kirby’s debut but it only took him 15 minutes to open his account for the club at the weekend and Forrest always felt his new striker would hit the ground running.

“I saw enough in the two or three weeks’ training beforehand to know he could be effective for us and he’s made a really good start,” said the Silsden boss.

“I’m really pleased with what he’s brought and his work ethic and his attitude is a breath of fresh air at this stage of the season.”

Silsden’s victory over Alsager saw them move nine points clear at the top of the table as second-placed Litherland REMYCA – who were due to host Cammell Laird last night – were held to a 4-4 draw at Chadderton.

Kyle Hancock added to Kirby’s opener before the break and Forrest felt his team always had the edge.

He said: “We’re training well and I felt that was the difference between the two teams. Our fitness showed and we deserved it.”

Silsden travel to mid-table Oswestry Town this weekend but, despite beating them 5-1 last time out, Forrest is expecting a much tougher game away from home.

“We played them when they were struggling a little bit but they had a good run before Christmas, put quite a few results together and pulled themselves away from danger and comfortably into mid-table,” he said.

“I’m expecting a tough game and a long trip – but we dealt with a long trip last Saturday and I feel we can match anyone in this league. I feel like as long as we’re on it, we’re in with a chance.”