ACCRINGTON Stanley boss John Coleman was happy to walk away with three points from a trying encounter with Leigh RMI at Hilton Park.

The Reds ran out 2-1 winners thanks to first half goals from midfielder Andy Gouck and right back Paul Howarth.

Coleman said: "The lads have had a long week and they have come through it with three wins, so we have every reason to be feeling confident."

Stanley now face a holiday double-header against Lancashire rivals Morecambe.

The Shrimps, who in ninth are one place below Accrington but have the same points, arrive at the Interlink Express Stadium on Boxing Day before a return meeting at Christie Park on New Year's Day.

For former Morecambe striker Coleman it is a test he is looking forward to, but he will be picking his side up on a couple of points before the games.

"I was disappointed that we let Leigh score late in the game on Saturday, and at times we were sloppy," said Coleman.

"Now is the time we have to start picking up points of we are going to be one of the sides in the running for a play-off place at the end of the season."