AFC Fylde boss Dave Challinor believes his side are beginning to rediscover their consistent form from last season, after victory at Corby Town on Saturday saw the Coasters climb to the top of the table.
Challinor’s league leaders have put together seven consecutive victories in all competitions, racking up an impressive 25 goals in the process and conceding on just three occasions.
The Coasters boasted the best goal difference in the National League North last term and the manager is delighted that his side are once again performing at both ends of the pitch.
“We had an exceptional defensive record last season,” said Challinor. “We scored the most and conceded the least in the league, so that is a recipe for success and we were so close winning the title.
“We have been unlucky with injuries this year, especially at the back, whereas last year we could almost name the same backline all season. So it was no surprise that we had so many clean sheets and conceded so few goals.
“In the first three or four weeks of this season we conceded some sloppy goals, but we have certainly tightened up in that respect and got back to how we were last year.
“We know we can create chances so if we can keep teams out at the other end, we know we can win games.
“We have been getting better all season on the offensive front too. There is plenty of competition at the top end of the pitch, but we have goals right through the team, which is a big positive for me.
“We have an array of attacking talent and to have Danny Rowe, who got 30 goals for us last season, and Matty Blinkhorn, who scored 25 the season before, gives us some real attacking options.
“When you add in the goals that are coming from wide areas and midfield, it’s a good headache to have.
“We encourage our lads to play with a freedom. We trust them enough to go out there, express themselves and make good decisions.
“We are free-scoring at the minute and not letting many in at the wrong end, but the second you switch off and get complacent that can easily change.”
