We will keep it tight promises Thorley

Stalybridge Celtic are the visitors to Marston Road on Saturday for the first league game in two weeks, with Chris Brindley's men looking to tighten up at the back after just one clean sheet from 14 games this season.

The manager warmed up his players by fielding a near full-strength first team for the reserves against Football CV Reds last night, as Rangers routed their opponents with an 11-0 win.

Thorley played 90 minutes in midfield and has been a fixture this season, after his decision to go to university and not pursue full-time football when leaving Stoke in the summer.

The 19-year-old's now studies sport in Worcester with a view to becoming a PE teacher, along with his regular place in the first-team.

But the teenage star has had to watch as goals have been leaked behind him, but Thorley is confident that with tests like last night and hard work on the training field mistakes can be rectified.

He said: "Our record speaks for itself defensively, but we are working on it and you will definitely see some improvements over the next few weeks. We are working hard to get better in that area. The goals are coming from everywhere, so that is not a problem.

"It was good to keep a clean sheet last night, the gaffer said that was the aim and we managed to do that. Hopefully we can take that into Saturday now."

Thorley has had to take a back seat as goals have come from all areas in the team this year, but the teenager has been pleased with his work overall.

He said: "I have been pleased with my own form, on and off. I have been a little bit inconsistent, but I am generally happy."

Injured central defensive duo Emmanuel Udoji and Andy Owens both played 90 minutes last night, after the return of loan signing Jermaine Johnson to Derby.

But Thorley would like to see Johnson back to the club.

The midfielder said: "Jermaine is a good lad to have, and I think most of the lads would love to see him back at the club for another month or two."