Attack from the back urges Thorley

The Marston Road men face trickier-than-they-look opposition when the Cheshire side are the visitors on Saturday, with Andy Preece's men finding their feet in the Blue Square North after relegation from the Premier last season.

The Vics' financial woes are worse then that of their cash-stricken hosts, and a subsequent 10-point deduction for going into administration has hampered their campaign so far.

Without that, the Victoria Stadium club would be eighth - as it stands, they are two places below Rangers in 16th.

With that in mind, Thorley is expecting a stern test on Saturday.

He said: "None of these games are easy, but we have to look to carry on and pick up another win. Northwich is going to be tough, without that points deduction they would be near the top, so they are a good team.

"We have tightened up at the back and that showed on Tuesday night, their two goals were a bit unfortunate on us, to be honest. Goals are not a problem, so if we can keep it tight we have a chance.

"Our games make good viewing for the fans at the moment, but I am not sure what it's doing to the gaffer!"

Rangers will nonetheless have their tails up after a first win in six games at Ilkeston on Tuesday night, Bobby Wilson's late winner settling the fourth five-goal thriller the team have been involved in.

Thorley said: "After last Saturday at Corby, we were a bit gutted and really determined to put it right, so we were delighted to get the three points on Tuesday night.

"But nothing seems to be straightforward at the moment, so credit to the lads for sticking in there.

"It shows how much we want it, at the end of the day."