Kittrick proud after perfect pre-Christmas week

The Gladiators sent National League side Chorley packing in the FA Trophy after a penalty shootout in midweek, and then followed that up with a 2-1 win at Bamber Bridge in the league on Saturday.

He said: “We said we wanted the lads to show the same kind of commitment in the league games as they had in the cup and we did that on Saturday.

“I though we battled really well, especially when they(Bamber Bridge) had their good spells so I’m more than pleased with the performance and the result.

“There was the extra time on Tuesday and the midweek journey, and it’s a funny time of year.

“You like to think that everyone will be sensible on Mad Friday but it’s one of those situations, the lads have jobs and there’ll be works parties.

“They’re semi pro and I thought the lads’ commitment was excellent and I’m immensely proud of them.”

Attention now turns to the Boxing Day visit of Buxton, where Matlock will be hoping to avenge their 6-0 thumping to their near neighbours last Easter.