The Lynx of Chorley have had a bit of a torrid time of it of late. Having been tonked by Leigh (expectedly) and Swinton (unexpectedly) in consecutive weeks, Graeme West really must feel that this isn't his month.

But he's got cause for optimism. The current Chorley side is vastly improved from previous whipping-boy incarnations and as he continues to blend enthusiastic young players with hoary old warhorses like Tim Street (currently sitting out a three match ban), the improvement will surely continue.

Indeed, Chorley are locked in battle with Swinton for the last 10-15th playoff spot and, whilst realistically standing very little chance of qualifying for Nat. League 1, the experience of playoff football is incentive enough for them to battle to the very end.

Unceremoniously nilled at Swinton last week, Graeme West was disappointed with his side's failure to control the ball - a problem Hornets fans are all too familiar with - and he's also had strong words about the creeping lack of discipline that's costing his side penalties, points and games.

And while a trip to Chorley is a tricky, but negotiable banana-skin, it's dangerous to take them too lightly. Leigh's renta-quote Paul Terzis showed them no respect whatsoever recently when he said that 'when you know you're going to beat Chorley, it's hard to keep the intensity up' - and one way to ensure that you do complete a professional job is to treat any opposition as thirteen players who want to win as much as you do.

We're sure that Hally will have Hornets right for this one and the team should look pretty similar to last week's. The main doubt at this stage is Richard Pachniuk who left the field groggy after some rather 'direct' treatment from his less capable opposite number last week in an attempt to neutralise his threatening runs. If his injury is concussive, expect warren Ayres to slot in at Hooker and Woody to go at 6.

Sunday also provides a great opportunity for Danny Sculthorpe to sharpen his not inconsiderable skills. Guilty of perhaps trying too hard last week, he showed incredible resolution to play two very tough periods and scared the daylights out of Oldham every time he carried the ball. It's great to see him back.

Elsewhere in the side, quick hands and a suspect defence should be more than enough to see Casey Mayberry add to his growing reputation.

Sunday's game is a vital one for a few reasons. Two points would see us hang on to that coveted third spot, it provides an opportunity to stretch out points difference advantage over the chasing pack (we're currently 11 better than Fev and 40 better than Doncaster) and a confident performance will set us up nicely for the four pointer at Doncaster seven days later.

At this stage of the season every game is vital. This one is no different - you'll never forgive yourself if you miss it.