IN-form Clitheroe look to extend their stunning UniBond League run tomorrow – and boss Pete Smith wants the fans to turn out as his men look to topple the Premier Division leaders.

Smith’s young Blues have won five league games on the spin in a run that has seen them go unbeaten since October but the manager admits they face their toughest test of the season when Curzon Ashton roll into Shawbridge.

“We are playing well and having some good results - but I knew we would,” he said. “But tomorrow is the big test. Curzon are a cracking side and are top of the table on merit.

“But we look forward to the test and hopefully the fans will come down and cheer us on against the leaders. They can really play their part.

“We had a season’s best crowd in our last game against Bamber Bridge and the fans are seeing some decent stuff and it is great for the club to see a lot of people coming through the gates.”

Liam McManus misses out for Clitheroe with a four-match ban meaning Jon Forbes will take over at right back.

“It’s a blow for Liam,” added Smith. “But that’s why we have a squad and people can slot in.

“The squad is young and keen and I think they are capable and you enjoy games like this.”

Clitheroe’s run - after a slow stuttering start to the season - has seen them rise to the very edge of the play-off positions ahead of the hectic festive period and Smith added: “They are starting to gel together now and find their feet in the league.

“And I think there is more to come from them.”