BURY player/boss Andy Preece was ecstatic after his gritty battlers clinched their Third Division play-off place with a hard earned 2-1 win at Southend on Saturday.

Before rushing off for a celebratory drink with his happy team, Preece said: "We'll be having a few beers tonight but the lads have certainly deserved it - what they have achieved has been nothing short of a miracle.

"Just 12 months ago the club looked down and very nearly out as we were in administration and the future looked extremely bleak.

"Nobody fancied us to survive let alone get into the play-offs. I just can't find words to describe how thrilled, delighted and proud I am."

And Preece was full of praise for the way his side had earned a chance of promotion.

"We weren't at our best today but the players dug in and battled for everything - the spirit and passion in the team is first class," he said.

"It has been a fantastic performance by everybody at the club and it's now important to keep all the players fully focused and their feet well and truly on the ground.

"I would find it hard to pick anyone out for special mention today because they all stood up to be counted - we were strong all over the park and our 'keeper Glyn Garner rescued us when it mattered late on."

And who does Preece fancy in the play-offs? "It doesn't really matter because all the sides in there will rate their chances," he added.

"We will probably be the underdogs which will suit us but the spirit in the dressing room is such that I'm sure we can surprise a few people yet.

"But if we do make it up into Division Two then I don't think anyone could begrudge us that honour.

"We've made it through sheer hard work and determination with everybody sticking togetherr and showing a superb work ethic. We are in the shake-up and it would be great to top off a magnificent season by winning the play-offs . . . the players are in the mood and raring to go!"